Site preparations have begun for a major pavement restoration and bridge rehabilitation to improve safety and traffic flow along the 16 Ave. and Barlow Trail N.E. corridor in Calgary.

A $17 million investment will be used for lifecycle maintenance including pavement restoration and reconstruction of Barlow Trail N.E. from 4 Ave. to Sunridge Blvd., including the 16 Ave. ramps. The city said to help minimize traffic delays due to construction, rehabilitation of the deteriorating bridge deck and structure supports of the 16 Ave. bridge over Barlow Trail will occur simultaneously.

A new multi-use pathway will also be built on the east side of Barlow Trail along Meridian Rd., from Centre Ave. to 28 St. N.E. The addition of this missing pathway link will enhance safety and connectivity for all travel modes and improve pedestrian access to businesses along the busy corridor. The estimated timeline for completion of these improvements is Fall 2021.

“Business access will not be impacted, however there will be some delays for drivers in the area as we undertake these important life-cycle projects,” said transportation project manager Peter Rudolf. “The 16 Ave. bridge over Barlow was built in 1978 and has reached a point where it needs an intervention. We’d like to thank area residents and local businesses for their patience and understanding during this construction period,” he added.

On Barlow Trail during the two major construction stages, traffic will be shifted to either side of the road; however, two lanes will be available both north and south during peak times. Commuters are advised to allow extra travel time to accommodate speed reductions and lane shifting.