After the 17 Avenue expansion is finished, Macleod Trail offers direct access to Stampede Park
The extension, managed by Calgary Stampede, can be closed during major events like the Stampede to accommodate large crowds.
A major infrastructure project in Calgary’s Culture and Entertainment District has been completed, marking a significant upgrade for Flames games, the Stampede, concerts, and more. Starting Thursday, pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles will have direct access to Stampede Park from Macleod Trail for the first time in 40 years, thanks to the completion of the 17 Avenue SE Extension and the Victoria Park/Stampede Station rebuild.
The $128 million project was led and funded by the Calgary Municipal Land Corporation (CMLC). Kate Thompson, CMLC’s president and CEO, called the project “transformative,” noting that it reconnects Stampede Park with the Beltline neighborhood, unlocking new growth opportunities. This, along with other investments like Stampede Trail and the upcoming 6 Street SE Underpass, is expected to boost accessibility, increase local spending, and attract private investment.
The new three-lane road extension, named Flores LaDue Parade, links the Beltline to the BMO Centre and the future Scotia Place event centre. Calgary Stampede CEO Joel Cowley said naming the road after iconic Stampede figure Flores LaDue honors her legacy and the spirit of celebration that the area will host.
The extension, managed by Calgary Stampede, can be closed during major events like the Stampede to accommodate large crowds.
Improvements to the Victoria Park/Stampede Station include expanded street-level platforms and a 7,200 square-foot public area, addressing past limitations and improving safety, sightlines, and accessibility. Doug Morgan, general manager of operational services, emphasized the importance of these upgrades in removing physical and visual barriers and preparing the area’s transportation network for future growth.
The station serves approximately 47,000 daily riders on Calgary’s Red Line, and more than 500 workers contributed over 450,000 hours to complete the road extension and station upgrades.
To celebrate the completion, CMLC is hosting an event on Saturday, Oct. 12, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., giving Calgarians a chance to explore the new facilities ahead of the Flames’ home opener.
