Northwest Calgary development has some residents on edge

The City of Calgary's plan to upgrade a major northwest intersection should ease traffic for several large developments, but it's causing unease for some area residents who say it will change the neighbourhood.

The redevelopment plan in the area includes building the Stadium Shopping Centre, the Calgary Cancer Centre, a West Campus for the University, and the Foothills Professional and Medical Centre.

Shirley Walker has lived in University Heights for 37 years.

"It's not going to be the same neighbourhood anymore," Walker said."We've enjoyed the relative quietness of the neighbourhood but we see that's really going to all change and I'm afraid of it."

Jack Wootliff lives in St. Andrews Heights and is worried about all the congestion that will result from construction.

"Our biggest problem is getting in and out of the area. And not just for me, but what about the more emergencythings like an ambulance or a fire truck?" Wootliff asks.

Part of the construction is also an upgrade to the intersection at 16th Avenue and 29th Street N.W. meant to ease traffic flow.

An additional lane is being added in each direction on 16th Avenue, and a roundabout will be built at Uxbridge Drive and Ulster Road.

City project manager Anne Cataford says it's not just about vehicular traffic.

"Our BRT or bus rapid transit is going to be running along 16th Avenue," Cataford said.

"We are hoping that more people will come by transit, not just cars. It's looking at all modes getting into this facility. The development is planning for more walking and cycling accommodations."

Walker said it may just be a matter of going with the flow, but she's not happy with it.

"We'll just have to watch and get to live with it I guess," she said.

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