Calgary seniors petition against Beltline bike lane idea

A group of residents at Grace Gardens, a seniors' home in Calgary’s Beltline area, is opposing a proposal for a new bike lane outside their building on 15 Avenue and 10 Street SW.

They have started a petition against the two-direction bike lane, arguing it will restrict vehicle access to their building.

Resident Gerry Morgan voiced concerns, saying, “They are putting our lives at risk if we can’t have access to an ambulance to come to the door and give us service quickly.”

The proposed project would relocate the current bike lane on 15 Avenue SW from the south side of the street to the north, positioning it directly in front of Grace Gardens’ loading area.

Additionally, the city plans to install a cement barrier along the bike lane and ban street parking.

Morgan also highlighted that the lane could disrupt visits from family and essential services: “Our children come to visit us, and some of us have maid service to help clean. All of those things cannot park in front of the place anymore if this goes through.”

In response, the City of Calgary informed CityNews that it plans to move Grace Gardens’ designated loading zone about 50 meters west, to 10 Street SW, and is considering adding a loading zone near the front entrance.

According to Ward 8 Coun. Courtney Walcott’s office, the building’s main vehicle access is via the rear alley, where parking and rear doors are located.

However, resident Ashleigh McNear stated that this option is unsuitable due to congestion, noting, “It’s impossible… The garbage truck can’t even get in.”

The building houses around 100 residents, and so far, 69 have signed the petition. The new bike lane is scheduled for installation next year.