Calgary

2nd downtown cycle track is 'madness,' says councillor

A Calgary city councillor is raising concerns about the second phase of a downtown cycle track because of its potential to upset traffic.

Proposed plan would run from Bow River to Talisman Centre

Coun. Sean Chu says "he hardly ever sees anybody" use the cycle track along Northland Drive NW. (CBC)

A Calgary city councillor is raising concerns about the second phase of a downtown cycle track because of its potential to upset traffic.

The city wants to convert a southbound lane of First Street S.E. into a two-way cycle track between the Bow River and the Talisman Centre. However, some say it would disrupt traffic for the sake of a few cyclists.

"Could you imagine, taking another lane off? That's madness," said Ward 4 Coun. Sean Chu. "I hope it doesn't happen."

Chu says converting the lane would increase traffic and travelling time for drivers.

According to a study done by the City of Calgary, the conversion would add just 30 seconds to the drive time.

The plan is part of an effort to make Calgary more bike-friendly, and the proposal for a full downtown cycle track will be presented to city council in April.