Council Policy

Policy Title: Plus 15 Policy

Policy Number: CP2021-03
Report Number: TT2021-0824
Adopted by/Date: Council / 2021 July 5
Effective Date: 2021 July 5
Last Amended:
Policy Owner: Roads

1. POLICY STATEMENT

1.1 The Plus 15 Policy identifies Council direction on the future development,
operations and long-term asset management of the Plus 15 network.

2. PURPOSE

2.1 The purpose of the Plus 15 Policy is to provide guidance on:

2.1.1 Initiation of new Plus 15 links.

2.1.2 Plus 15 bridge design.

2.1.3 Performance requirements for new Plus 15 links and renewal of existing Plus
15 links.

2.1.4 Asset management to protect the Plus 15 network.

2.1.5 Plus 15 network improvements.

2.1.6 Programming opportunities.

2.1.7 Plus 15 Fund collection and purpose.

3. DEFINITIONS

3.1 In this Council Policy:

3.1.1 “Plus 15 network” means an elevated, weather-protected, public pedestrian

walkway network located in Calgary’s downtown. The Plus 15 network is
comprised of Plus 15 bridges, Plus 15 connectors, Plus 15 open-air
structures, Plus 15 walkways, Plus 15 level access and public easement
areas.

3.1.2 “Plus 15 links” means Plus 15 bridges, Plus 15 bridge connectors, Plus 15
walkways and Plus 15 level access.

3.1.3 “Plus 15 bridges” means weather-protected and environmentally-controlled

structures located approximately 15 feet above a roadway, light rail transit
 track or public lane. The City of Calgary owns Plus 15 bridges over the road
right-of-way, light rail transit right-of-way and public lanes.

3.1.4 “Plus 15 bridge connectors” means a portion of the Plus 15 bridge that are
located within private property (from the edge of the property line to the
property façade). This portion of the bridge is owned by the property owner.

3.1.5 “Plus 15 walkways” means protected public easement areas located at the
Plus 15 level within private and public properties enabling public passage
through the Plus 15 network.

3.1.6 “Plus 15 level access” means public easement areas, publicly accessible
stairs, ramps, escalators and elevators within a property which enable access
from street level to the Plus 15 level and Plus 15 network. Plus 15 level is
typically the second floor of the property where the Plus 15 bridges and
walkways are located.

3.1.7 “Plus 15 open-air structures” means bridges or elevated walkways not

weather-protected and/or environmentally-controlled. These structures were
constructed prior to the adoption of the 1984 +15 Policy but are part of the
current Plus 15 network.

3.1.8 “Plus 15 bridge structural supports” means engineered substructure elements

that support existing or future Plus 15 bridges and Plus 15 bridge connectors.

3.1.9 “Public easement areas” means areas which grant public access to interior
and exterior public areas within properties. They are located on the street
level and the Plus 15 level. All new developments within the Plus 15
boundary must provide for public access through easements regardless of
property use.

3.1.10 “Plus 15 security infrastructure” means physical and electronic devices on

Plus 15 links for access control, detection and reporting.

3.1.11 “Plus 15 bridge maintenance” means work carried out on a routine basis
during the life of the Plus 15 link to ensure it is safe and comfortable for public
use. It includes, but is not limited to, cleaning, washing, servicing of electrical
and mechanical systems, vandalism removal, the remedy of any
maintenance defects and Plus 15 bridge renewal.

3.1.12 “Plus 15 bridge renewal”, means, but is not limited to, repair, rehabilitation
and replacement of any or all components to ensure the infrastructure meets
or exceeds its intended design life.

3.1.13 “Plus 15 wayfinding” means physical and digital infrastructure that facilitates
pedestrian navigation through the Plus 15 network including, but not limited
to, signage, maps, and digital applications.
 3.1.14 “Placemaking” means a transformative approach to using public space by
creating vibrant spaces to enhance the user experience.

3.1.15 “Property owners” means property owners and their designated property
managers who own and operate buildings in downtown Calgary.

4. APPLICABILITY

4.1 The Plus 15 Policy replaces the 1984 +15 Policy and supplements the Land Use
Bylaw.

4.2 This Council Policy applies to sites within the Plus 15 boundary in downtown
Calgary as shown in the Plus 15 Policy.

4.3 Where there is a conflict between the Plus 15 Policy and policy in a statutory plan
or Land Use Bylaw, the statutory plan and bylaw shall supersede this policy.

4.4 In the case where the Plus 15 Policy conflicts with policies in a non-statutory plan,
this policy shall supersede.

5. PROCEDURE

5.1 The Plus 15 Policy document (Schedule 1) contains the complete policy for the
Plus 15 network.

6. SCHEDULE(S)

6.1 Plus 15 Policy.

8. AMENDMENT(S)

Date of Council Report/By-Law Description

Decision

9. REVIEWS(S)

Date of Policy Owner’s Review Description

Plus 15 Policy
July 5, 2021
Publishing information
Title
Plus 15 Policy

Author
The City of Calgary

Status
APPROVED July 5, 2021
calgary.ca/Plus15
Table of contents
Executive Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
1. Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
1.1 Context . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
1.2 Vision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
1.3 Mission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
1.4 Public engagement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
1.5 Policy purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
1.6 Hierarchy of policies and plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
2. Plus 15 network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
2.1 Plus 15 network components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
3. Plus 15 network development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
3.1 Plus 15 network objective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
3.2 Plus 15 boundary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
3.3 Plus 15 link initiation criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
3.4 Plus 15 development agreements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
3.5 Plus 15 network design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
4. Plus 15 network operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
4.1 Condition assessment program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
4.2. Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
4.3 Safety and security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
4.4 Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
4.5 Standard hours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
4.6 Changes to standard hours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
4.7 Acceptable Plus 15 network uses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
4.8 Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
4.9 Busking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
5. Plus 15 network improvements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
6. Plus 15 fund . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
6.1 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
6.2 Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
6.3 Criteria for use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
6.4 Contribution calculation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
6.5 Estimate of Plus 15 bridge and bridge connector project cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
6.6 Fund holding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
6.7 Additional revenue sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Appendix A: Value of the Plus 15 network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Downtown economy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Movement and mobility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Pedestrian volumes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Why do people use the Plus 15? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Public safety and accessibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Access to cultural district and tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Social connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Arts and vistas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Health and wellness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Appendix B: Background . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Plus 15 Must Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
1984 +15 Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Calgary’s Greater Downtown Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Executive summary
Since the construction of the first Plus 15 bridge in 1969, the Plus 15 network has grown to
86 bridges and over 16 kilometres of elevated, weather-protected walkways in downtown
Calgary. The development of the Plus 15 network has been guided by the 1984 +15 Policy.
It is a unique part of Calgary’s downtown landscape that connects people to work, amenities
and recreation. It also supports the real estate sector and the downtown economy and enables
mass movement of pedestrians.

Plus 15 bridges located over City road right-of-ways are built by the development industry in
exchange for bonus density and are owned by The City following construction completion.
Plus 15 bridges are connected by Plus 15 walkways (protected by public easement areas) within
private properties. The Plus 15 network is managed by The City of Calgary and extends from
8th Street S.W. to 3rd Street S.E. and 2nd Avenue S.W. to 10th Avenue S.W.

The Plus 15 Policy identifies Council direction on the future development, operations and
long-term asset management of the Plus 15 network.

The purpose of the Plus 15 Policy is to provide guidance on:

• Initiation of new Plus 15 links.
• Performance requirements for new Plus 15 links and renewal of existing Plus 15 links.
• Asset management to protect the Plus 15 network.
• Plus 15 network improvements.
• Programming opportunities.
• Plus 15 Fund collection and purpose.

In support of the Plus 15 Policy, studies, plans and strategies were developed using collected
data and information from public engagements. Public engagement was undertaken from
2017 to 2019 to understand stakeholder needs, expectations and future vision for the network.
From this collected information, the Plus 15 Network Study, Plus 15 Safety and Security Plan,
Plus 15 Asset Management Plan, Plus 15 Funding Strategy and Plus 15 Network Design
Guidelines were developed.

The Plus 15 Policy replaces the 1984 +15 Policy and supplements the Land Use Bylaw. This
Council Policy applies to sites within the Plus 15 boundary in downtown Calgary. Where there
is a conflict between the Plus 15 Policy and policy in a statutory plan or Land Use Bylaw, the
statutory plan and bylaw shall supersede this policy. In the case where the Plus 15 Policy is in
conflict with policies in a non-statutory plan, this policy shall supersede.

Plus 15 Policy |1
1. Overview
1.1 Context
The landscape of Calgary is changing as it adapts to the new economy and will continue to
evolve with the adoption of Calgary’s Greater Downtown Plan: Roadmap to Reinvention.
Parts of downtown that were once predominantly commercial are seeing increased residential
and mixed uses. Travel options into the downtown are also shifting with access to varied
transportation options including cycle tracks, light rail transit, bus rapid transit, bike, car and
electric scooter sharing. Communities bordering downtown have also increased pedestrian
access into downtown and the Plus 15 network with improvements to the pedestrian realm.

To guide the Plus 15 Policy, vision and mission statements were established in March 2018 by
stakeholders including community associations, property owners, special interest groups and
City departments.

1.2 Vision 1.3 Mission

A vibrant, animated, seamless network A convenient and environmentally
of destinations and experiences that is controlled manner of connecting people
embraced by the citizens of Calgary. to places and to each other.

1.4 Public engagement

Public engagement was undertaken from 2017 to 2019 to gather information on user
expectations and operational requirements. Two online questionnaires, four pop-up sessions
and a total of 18 stakeholder meetings were held.

Plus 15 challenges identified from public engagement included inconsistent operational hours,
poor wayfinding, lack of connections to destinations, inconsistent accessibility, social disorder,
lack of clarity on operational responsibilities and removing activity from the street.

Top user requirements included:

• More Plus 15 connections to destinations.
• Unified operating hours.
• Mobile wayfinding tools to navigate the Plus 15 network.
• Longer opening hours.
• Improved wayfinding infrastructure.

Top operational opportunities included:

• Revised hours of operation to mitigate property damage and vagrancy.
• Communication.
• Clarity on maintenance responsibilities.
• Clarity on security and enforcement responsibilities.

Plus 15 Policy |2
1.5 Policy purpose
The Plus 15 Policy identifies Council direction on the future development, operations and
long-term asset management of the Plus 15 network. The purpose of the Plus 15 Policy is to
provide guidance on:
• Initiation of new Plus 15 links.
• Plus 15 bridge design.
• Performance requirements for new Plus 15 links and renewal of existing Plus 15 links.
• Asset management to protect the Plus 15 network.
• Plus 15 network improvements.
• Programming opportunities.
• Plus 15 Fund collection and purpose.

1.6 Hierarchy of policies and plans

The Plus 15 Policy replaces the 1984 +15 Policy and supplements the Land Use Bylaw. This
Council Policy applies to sites within the Plus 15 boundary in downtown Calgary. Where there
is a conflict between the Plus 15 Policy and policy in a statutory plan or Land Use Bylaw, the
statutory plan and bylaw shall supersede this policy. In the case where the Plus 15 Policy is in
conflict with policies in a non-statutory plan, this policy shall supersede.

Supplemental documents were developed in conjunction with the Plus 15 Policy using collected
data and information from public engagements. They are:
• Plus 15 Network Study – A study that reviews the Plus 15 Boundary, hours of operation,
wayfinding, accessibility, programming and missing Plus 15 links.
• Plus 15 Safety and Security Plan – A framework that outlines priority actions and
requirements to ensure a coordinated approach to security throughout the Plus 15 network.
• Plus 15 Asset Management Plan – A plan for long term preservation and management of
the Plus 15 network.
• Plus 15 Funding Strategy – A strategy of short and long term sustainable funding opportunities.
• Plus 15 Design Guidelines – A guideline that provides design and performance requirements
for new construction and the renewal of Plus 15 network components.

Figure 1: Hierarchy of policies and plans

Alberta Municipal Government Act

Municipal Development Plan/

Calgary Transportation Plan

Land Use Bylaw

Calgary’s Greater
Downtown Plan

Plus 15 Policy

Plus 15 Policy |3
2. Plus 15 network
The Plus 15 network is located within downtown Calgary and includes a total of 86 City-owned
bridges and over 16 kilometres of elevated walkway. The majority of the network is weather-
protected with 81 climate-controlled bridges and five open-air structures. It supplements the
sidewalk network by providing an alternate weather-protected pedestrian network.

Plus 15 bridges are connected by publicly accessible walkways (protected by public

easement areas) within the second floor of private properties. The second floor is called the
Plus 15 level and the name, Plus 15, was derived from the bridges being approximately
15 feet above the roadway.

2.1 Plus 15 network components

The Plus 15 network is comprised of several components and shown schematically in Figure 2.

2.1.1 Plus 15 network

The Plus 15 network is an elevated, weather-protected, public pedestrian walkway network
located in Calgary’s downtown. The Plus 15 network is comprised of Plus 15 bridges,
Plus 15 connectors, Plus 15 open-air structures, Plus 15 walkways, Plus 15 level access and
public easement areas.

2.1.2 Plus 15 links

Plus 15 links include Plus 15 bridges, Plus 15 bridge connectors, Plus 15 walkways and
Plus 15 level access.

2.1.3 Plus 15 bridges

Plus 15 bridges are weather-protected and environmentally-controlled structures located
approximately 15 feet above a roadway, light rail transit track or public lane. The City of Calgary
owns Plus 15 bridges over the road right-of-way, light rail transit right-of-way and public lanes.

2.1.4 Plus 15 bridge connectors

Plus 15 bridge connectors are a portion of the Plus 15 bridge that are located within private
property (from the edge of the property line to the property façade). This portion of the bridge is
owned by the property owner.

2.1.5 Plus 15 walkways

Plus 15 walkways are protected public easement areas located at the Plus 15 level within private
and public properties enabling public passage through the Plus 15 network.

2.1.6 Plus 15 level access

Plus 15 level access include public easement areas, publicly accessible stairs, ramps, escalators
and elevators within a property which enable access from street level to the Plus 15 level and
Plus 15 network. Plus 15 level is typically the second floor of the property where the Plus 15
bridges and walkways are located.

Plus 15 Policy |4
2.1.7 Plus 15 open-air structures
Plus 15 open-air structures are bridges or elevated walkways not weather-protected and/or
environmentally-controlled. These structures were constructed prior to the adoption of the
1984 +15 Policy but are part of the current Plus 15 network.

2.1.8 Plus 15 bridge structural supports

Plus 15 bridge structural supports are engineered substructure elements that support existing or
future Plus 15 bridges and Plus 15 bridge connectors.

2.1.9 Public easement areas

Public easement areas grant public access to interior and exterior public areas within properties.
They are located on the street level and the Plus 15 level. All new developments within the
Plus 15 boundary must provide for public access through easements regardless of property use.

2.1.10 Plus 15 security infrastructure

Plus 15 security infrastructure includes physical and electronic devices on Plus 15 links for
access control, detection and reporting.

2.1.11 Plus 15 bridge maintenance

Plus 15 bridge maintenance is carried out on a routine basis during the life of the Plus 15 link
to ensure it is safe and comfortable for public use. It includes, but is not limited to, cleaning,
washing, servicing of electrical and mechanical systems, vandalism removal, the remedy of any
maintenance defects and Plus 15 bridge renewal.

2.1.12 Plus 15 bridge renewal

Plus 15 bridge renewal, which falls under Plus 15 bridge maintenance, includes, but is not limited
to, repair, rehabilitation and replacement of any or all components to ensure the infrastructure
meets or exceeds its intended design life.

2.1.13 Plus 15 wayfinding

Plus 15 wayfinding includes physical and digital infrastructure that facilitates pedestrian
navigation through the Plus 15 network including, but not limited to, signage, maps, and
digital applications.

2.1.14 Placemaking
Placemaking is a transformative approach to using public space by creating vibrant spaces to
enhance the user experience.

2.1.15 Property owners

Property owners and their designated property managers own and operate buildings in
downtown Calgary.

Plus 15 Policy |5
 Figure 2: Typical network component layout

Elevation view

Plus 15 bridge connector

Plus 15 walkway Plus 15 bridge Plus 15 walkway

Plus 15 level

Property Property

Public roadway, lane or

light rail transit right-of-way

Property line Property line = Public easement

Plus 15 walkway Plus 15 bridge

Plus 15
level access

Public easement area

Property line

Plus 15 Policy |6
3. Plus 15 network development
3.1. Plus 15 network objective
The objective of the Plus 15 network is to provide convenient, safe and universally accessible
pedestrian connections to:
• Transportation options such as light rail transit, bus rapid transit, bus stops, cycle tracks
and parking.
• Residential and commercial buildings.
• Businesses and amenities within downtown such as retail, restaurants, hotels, professional
services and meeting spaces.
• Entertainment, cultural landmarks, parks and public spaces.

3.2 Plus 15 boundary

The Plus 15 boundary shown in Figure 3 defines the area in downtown where the Plus 15
network may be developed and where the Plus 15 Policy applies.

3.2.1 Developments within the Plus 15 boundary

3.2.1.1 Plus 15 Fund contribution
Subject to the Land Use Bylaw, new developments above the base density in a land use district
within the Plus 15 boundary must provide financial contributions to the Plus 15 Fund in order to
receive a bonus density incentive.

3.2.1.2 Plus 15 bridges

New developments within the Plus 15 boundary are eligible to receive a bonus density incentive
for providing Plus 15 bridges associated with the new development.

3.2.1.3 Plus 15 level access and walkways

New developments within the Plus 15 boundary shall make provisions to connect into the Plus
15 network regardless of use (residential or commercial) and shall provide public easement areas
for Plus 15 level access and Plus 15 walkways.

3.2.1.4 Plus 15 network future components

Additional Plus 15 network components may be required, depending on the context of the site.
These may include, but not limited to, the construction or future construction of:
• Plus 15 bridge supports
• Plus 15 bridges connectors
• Plus 15 bridges
• Plus 15 level access

3.2.2 Plus 15 links outside the Plus 15 boundary

New developments outside of the Plus 15 boundary proposing a Plus 15 link will not be accepted
by The City. Exceptions may be considered where value to the overall Plus 15 network can be
demonstrated such as public benefit and alignment with Calgary’s Greater Downtown Plan.
However these new developments will not be eligible for bonus incentives outlined in the
Land Use Bylaw.

Plus 15 Policy |7
 Figure 3: Plus 15 boundary

NW
R
LD
IA
OR

W
EM

ES
M

BARCLAY PARAD
EAU CLAIRE AVE SW EAU CLAIRE AVENUE SW RIVERFRONT AVE SW
BOW MEM
RIVE ORIA
L
1 AVE SW
R DR
NE

1 STREET SW
6 STREET SW
2 AVE SW 2 AVE SW 2 AVE SW 2 AVE SE RIVE
RFRO

1 STREET SE
NT ARIVE
VRFERON
UVEESE S
NT A

3 AVE SW 3 AVE SW 3 AVENUE

3 AVE SW 3 AVE SE SW
W

4 AVENUE
4 AVE SW SW 4 AVE SW 4 AVE SW 4 AVE SE

CENTRE ST S

MACLEOD TR SE
5 AVE SW 5 AVE SW 5 AVE SW 5 AVE SE
5 ST SW

1 ST SW
8 ST SW

7 ST SW

6 ST SW

3 ST SW
4 ST SW

1 ST SE

3 STREET SE3 ST SE
9 ST SW

2 ST SW
8 STREET SW

6 AVE SW 6 AVE SW 6 AVE SW 6 AVE SE

7 AVE SW 7 AVE SE
7 AVE SW 7 AVE SW

4 ST SE
9 ST SW

8 ST SW

8 AVE SW 8 AVE SW 8 AVE SW 8 AVE SE

6 ST SW
7 ST SW

9 AVE SW 9 AVE SW 9 AVE SW 9 AVE SE

10 AVE SW
10 AVENUE
10 AVESW
SW 10 AVE SW 10 AVE SE

11 AVE SW 11 AVE SW 11 AVE SE

OLYMPIC WY SE
3 ST SE
Legend
12 AVE SW 12 AVE SW 12 AVE SE
Plus 15 boundary Red line LRT Blue line LRT Green line alignment Plus 15 network

MACLEOD TR SE
CENTRE ST S
8 ST SW

7 ST SW

6 ST SW

5 ST SW

4 ST SW
9 ST SW

1 ST SW
2 ST SW

1 ST SE
Plus 15 Policy |8
13 AVE SW 13 AVE SW 13 AVE SE 13 AVE SE
3.3 Plus 15 link initiation criteria
All new Plus 15 bridges and walkways proposed within the Plus 15 boundary will be assessed
against the following criteria:
• Connections to transportation modes – This includes, but is not limited to, connection to
present and future light rail transit, bus rapid transit, bus stops, cycle tracks and parking.
• User demand – Measured or projected pedestrian volumes from existing properties and
future developments.
• Travel time and distance reduction – Effectiveness at reducing distance and time travelled
within the Plus 15 network.
• Feasibility and constructability – This includes, but is not limited to, length of Plus 15 links,
number of property impacts, type of properties affected and land availability.
• Aesthetics – This includes impacts to landmarks, the visual identities or character of
adjacent properties.
• Minimized street level impacts – This includes impacts to at-grade businesses, pedestrian
corridors and overall street vibrancy.
• Alignment with Council policies and plans – This includes policies and plans within downtown
and bordering communities.

3.3.1 Developer initiated Plus 15 links

Developers who elect to provide a new Plus 15 bridge are required to connect to the Plus 15
network. In accordance with the Land Use Bylaw, new Plus 15 bridges delivered as part of new
development are eligible to receive additional density for a proposed property.

All new Plus 15 bridges must meet the requirements outlined in this Policy, the Plus 15 network
Design Guidelines and the Land Use Bylaw.

In cases where new Plus 15 bridges are provided between existing properties, bonus density
provisions in the Land Use Bylaw are not applicable.

3.3.2 City initiated Plus 15 links

The City may elect to build or contribute funding to a new Plus 15 link identified as a missing
Plus 15 link in the Plus 15 Network Study.

Plus 15 Policy |9
3.4 Plus 15 development agreements
A Plus 15 Development Agreement with The City, entered into during the Development Permit
process, is required where a new Plus 15 link is constructed.

Plus 15 Development Agreements outline requirements, roles and responsibilities for:

• Maintenance
• Plus 15 bridge replacements
• Remedies for maintenance defaults
• Remedies for third party damage
• Security monitoring and enforcement
• Security infrastructure
• Communications
• Wayfinding
• Programming

3.5. Plus 15 network design

3.5.1 Plus 15 bridge design principles
Plus 15 bridges are an integral part of Calgary’s public realm and contribute to both the
connectivity and legibility of downtown Calgary. Plus 15 bridges shall be designed to add value
to the public realm and to downtown through:
• High quality design of all bridges, finishes and associated elements.
• Design and finishes that ensure bridges are integrated and complement the architecture of
adjacent buildings through form, transparency, lighting and material selection.
• Design approach where signature designs may be warranted at key landmark or gateway
locations (as per Calgary’s Greater Downtown Plan). Other locations may require a more subtle
design approach. The design approach will be determined at time of application.
• Interior design, finishes and lighting which contribute to the pedestrian experience while
facilitating universal accessibility, wayfinding, programming, comfort and safety with
integrated security infrastructure.
• Connectivity, both physically and visually, between the network and the at-grade public realm.
• Enhanced sidewalk conditions below Plus 15 bridges including employing lighting to ensure
safety and improved vibrancy through creative bridge soffit designs and finishes.
• The display or integration of public art within, on or below bridges and within walkways.

3.5.2 Plus 15 design guidelines

Plus 15 Design Guidelines provide design criteria and performance requirements for the
design of new Plus 15 links and the renewal of existing Plus 15 links and related network
components. The design of new Plus 15 bridges are evaluated by The City as part of the
development permit process.

3.5.2 Plus 15 regulatory bulletins

Regulatory bulletins are issued with every code cycle and address code requirements specific
to the Plus 15 network.

Plus 15 Policy | 10
4. Plus 15 network operations
4.1 Condition assessment program
Routine condition assessments are required to monitor the condition of Plus 15 network
components and identify renewal requirements.

Detailed condition assessments shall be conducted on a five-year basis by The City of Calgary.
Visual inspections shall be conducted on a biennial basis by The City of Calgary and/or the
property owner. Visual inspections conducted by the property owner shall be provided to
The City for information.

Detailed condition assessments and visual inspections will be provided to the property owners
to action.

4.2 Maintenance
Plus 15 network components shall be maintained by the property owner on a routine basis
during the life of the Plus 15 link to ensure it is safe and comfortable for public use. Maintenance
includes the renewal of Plus 15 network components.

Any defect identified in the condition assessments shall be remedied by the property owner to
the satisfaction of The City of Calgary.

Detailed maintenance requirements and responsibilities are outlined in the Plus 15

Development Agreement.

4.3 Safety and security

To ensure the Plus 15 network is safe and secure for the public, a coordinated approach is
required. The Plus 15 Safety and Security Plan is a framework that aims to increase information
sharing among property security professionals that are part of the Plus 15 network, standardize
security infrastructure and enforcement and increase awareness of resources available for
engaging with vulnerable populations. This plan applies to the Plus 15 network operations for
existing and new Plus 15 links.

4.4 Security
Security is required to ensure safety and protection of the public. It includes patrols,
enforcement and monitoring and shall be provided by the property owner for Plus 15 links
to the satisfaction of The City of Calgary.

Property owner and manager rights to security enforcement are outlined in the Plus 15
Development Agreement.

4.5 Standard hours

Standard Plus 15 operating hours are:
• Monday to Friday: Open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Saturday, Sunday and statutory holidays: Open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Plus 15 Policy | 11
4.6 Changes to standard hours
4.6.1 Permanent changes to hours
Plus 15 links may open earlier or close later than the standard hours permanently.

4.6.2 Temporary changes to hours

Plus 15 links may:
• Open earlier or close later than the standard hours.
• Open later or close earlier than the standard hours.
• Be closed.

The City of Calgary will evaluate temporary changes to hours based on:
• Start and end time of the closure.
• Closure duration.
• Location within the Plus 15 network.
• Impact to pedestrian movement.
• Suitability under the building code.

4.6.3 Approval process

All requests for permanent or temporary changes to hours shall be approved at the discretion of
The City of Calgary.

Temporary or permanent signage is required to notify the public of any changes to the standard
hours. All signage will be provided by the property owner.

A pedestrian detour plan shall be required for approved Plus 15 link closures.

4.7 Acceptable Plus 15 network uses

The Plus 15 network supports pedestrian movement throughout downtown for citizens of
all ages and abilities. Acceptable uses within the Plus 15 network include walking, the use of
devices or service animals to support people with disabilities, baby carriages or a wheeled
device for carrying a child.

4.8 Programming
The Plus 15 network may be programmed with placemaking activities that are accessible to the
public. Programming requests will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and shall be approved
at the discretion of The City of Calgary. Evaluation criteria may include, but not be limited to,
start and end time of the event, event duration, location within the Plus 15 network, impact to
pedestrian movement, pedestrian detour route and suitability under the building code.

4.9 Busking
Busking involves a person or group who provides entertainment performances for the
public in exchange for money. Busking is not permitted within the Plus 15 network except
where approved by The City of Calgary.

Plus 15 Policy | 12
5. Plus 15 network improvements
The Plus 15 network has developed over the past 50 years which has resulted in a network
built to varying design standards. To ensure the Plus 15 network is user-friendly and inclusive of
people of all ages and abilities, improvements related to accessibility, wayfinding and security
have been identified in the Plus 15 Network Study.

6. Plus 15 fund
6.1 Overview
The Plus 15 Fund contains financial contributions required by all new developments within the
Plus 15 boundary that receive a floor area ratio greater than the base density, in accordance with
the Land Use Bylaw. The financial contribution is collected under the authority of the Land Use
Bylaw rules through a Development Permit.

Subject to the Land Use Bylaw all new developments in the Plus 15 boundary above the base
density must provide a financial contribution to the Plus 15 Fund in accordance with this Policy
and the Land Use Bylaw.

6.2 Purpose
The purpose of the Plus 15 Fund ensures continual improvement and protection of the Plus 15
network. Uses may include, but are not limited to:
• Design and construction of missing Plus 15 links.
• Design and construction of accessibility improvements.
• Design and construction of wayfinding improvements.
• Design and construction of security infrastructure improvements.
• Design and construction of safety improvements to protect the public and property.
• Design and construction of Plus 15 network renewals.
• Design and construction of emergency repairs.
• Detailed and visual condition assessments.

6.3 Criteria for use

The City of Calgary shall recommend funding for projects from the Plus 15 Fund in accordance
with the purposes listed in Section 6.2. Council approval of Plus 15 Fund expenditure will follow
The City of Calgary’s budgeting process.

Plus 15 Policy | 13
6.4 Contribution calculation
The Plus 15 Fund financial contribution is intended to equitably distribute the Plus 15 network costs
of protecting, supporting and improving the Plus 15 network between property owners downtown.

The calculation assigns the level of the financial contribution for new development based on
the proportion of the block taken up by the site. This calculation is referenced in CR20 Part 13,
Division 3 of the Land Use Bylaw.

( )
X= C x SA
BA

Where: X = Amount of Plus 15 Fund contribution required

C = Total project cost to design and construct a typical Plus 15 bridge and bridge connector
SA = Site area of the development
BA = Block area where the development is located (property line to property line
excluding any City owned lanes running through the block)

6.5 Estimate of Plus 15 bridge and bridge connector

project cost
Total project cost to design and construct a typical Plus 15 bridge and bridge connector
(reference Section 6.4) will be updated by The City of Calgary and reported every two years to
the City’s Executive Leadership Team.

6.6 Fund holding

Financial contributions to the Plus 15 Fund are held in an interest-bearing account and interest
received is treated as part of the Plus 15 Fund.

6.7 Additional revenue sources

6.7.1 Commercial use of public easement area
Commercial use of public easement areas within buildings in the Plus 15 network may
be considered by The City of Calgary. Requests are reviewed and consider type of use,
encroachment into the public easement area and the ability to maintain a minimum clear
walking width of 4.5 metres. Approval is required by The City of Calgary and once approval
is granted, a legal agreement is required and an annual fee is charged for use of the public
easement area as outlined in the Plus 15 Funding Strategy.

6.7.2 Using Plus 15 bridges for private events

The use of Plus 15 bridges for private events may be considered by The City of Calgary. Private
event requests shall be approved by The City of Calgary and will be evaluated based on start and
end times of the event, event duration, location within the Plus 15 network, impact to pedestrian
movement through the Plus 15 network, pedestrian detour route and suitability under the
building code.

Valid insurance will be required and fees will be charged for the space used. Fee calculation and
collection are outlined in the Plus 15 Funding Strategy.

6.7.3 Commercial uses within the span of a Plus 15 bridge

Commercial uses are not permitted within Plus 15 bridges.

Plus 15 Policy | 14
Plus 15 Policy | 15
Appendix A:
Value of the Plus 15 network
Downtown economy
The Plus 15 network has a direct impact on the downtown economy. Businesses rely on the
pedestrian traffic for business generation which in turn attracts businesses to lease commercial
space. Plus 15 connectivity has become a priority for tenants looking to lease vacant space and
building owners have indicated that being connected to the Plus 15 network can directly affect
their ability to lease their buildings. To remain competitive in the current real estate market,
building owners continue to connect into the Plus 15 network to meet tenant requirements.
Building owners see connection to the Plus 15 network as an enhancement to the long-term
value of their property. Small business opportunities also exist within the Plus 15 network like
shoe shine stations commonly observed in the network.

Movement and mobility

There has been significant increase in daily walking trips into and exiting downtown from
approximately 31,000 in 1996 to over 67,000 by 2019 (+117%). Similarly, cycling trips (+177%)
and trips by transit (+96%) have also seen substantial increases over the last 23 years in the
downtown Central Business District alone (Figure 4). These trends reflect a noteworthy transition
away from auto use and towards more sustainable transportation options.
Mobility in downtown Calgary, 1996 to 2019
Figure 4: Mobility in downtown Calgary – Changes from 1996 to 2019

2019 2019 14,297

67,153 cyclists
pedestrians

+177%
By bicycle
+117%
By foot

1996 5,154
30,963 1996 cyclists
pedestrians

2019
231,630
occupants

-8%
+96% By car
By transit 377,543 2019
occupants
1996 117,987
occupants
410,925 1996
occupants

The City of Calgary’s Central Business District (CBD) cordon counts between 1996 and 2019

Plus 15 Policy | 16
 Pedestrian volumes
To understand how the mobility shift is supported by the Plus 15 network, pedestrian counts
were conducted in February 2018 to assess pedestrian volumes. Most of the counts were
nine hour counts carried out across the network over several weekdays. Additional 24-hour
counts were conducted in select locations in April 2018.

When compared to the pedestrian counts from 2011, increases in pedestrian usage were
observed throughout the network. In 2018, the highest pedestrian volumes, over 20,000 people
per day, were at the downtown retail corridor. This corridor consists of the west to east links just
north of 8th Avenue from 2nd Street S.W. to 4th Street S.W. Within this corridor, the Plus 15
bridge crossing 2nd Street S.W. between 7th Avenue S.W. and 8th Avenue had the highest
pedestrian volume of 32,689 people per day. This is a 142 per cent increase from 13,489 people
per day counted the 2011. A heat map showing the differences in peak daily pedestrian volumes
is provided in Figure 6.

Pedestrian volumes were highest on weekdays during the lunch period (11:45 a.m. – 1:15 p.m.).
Pedestrian volumes also rose during the morning (7 – 9:30 a.m.) and afternoon (3 – 6 p.m.)
commutes but were much lower than volumes observed during lunchtime. See Figure 5.

Figure 5: Peak pedestrian volumes on the Plus 15 network (February 2018)

18,000
12:15
16,532
16,000

14,000
Pedestrian volume

12,000

10,000

8,000

6,000

4,000

2,000

0
7:00

7:30

8:00

8:30

9:00

9:30

10:00

10:30

11:00

11:30

12:00

12:30

13:00

13:30

14:00

14:30

15:00

15:30

16:00

16:30

17:00

17:30

Time

Plus 15 Policy | 17
 Figure 6: Plus 15 pedestrian heat map (February 2018)
2 AVENUE NE

ER
RIV
10 ST NW

W
310-314

BO
W
N
BROKEN
PLATE

E
RIVER RUN

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CONDO’S

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130- 148 10 ST NW

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BARCLAY PARADE
EAU CLAIRE CONDOS
HELIPORT YMCA

4
EAU CLAIRE MARKET
3

1886
CAFE
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BOAT LAUNCH EAU CLAIRE AVENUE SW

BARLEY
106 - 126 10 ST NW

MILL
MEM
OR

SENIOR’SCENTRE
EAU CLAIRE 3 EAU CLAIRE 3 IAL

RIVERFRONT

CHINATOWN
DR

CALGARY
LANDS LANDS IVE
1 AVENUE SW

205
SIEN LOK PARK NE
ERNST & SHERATON

2 STREET SW
YOUNG EAU CLAIRE
2 EAU CLAIRE

PHILLIPS
ONTHEPARKE
APTS BOW TOWER

BLDG

HARMONIOUS
LACAILLE
LA CAILLE 10 CLAIRE

JOE
24 BOWSIDE

2 AVE SW

BROADVIEW
RESTAURANT

2AVESW
ESTATES BO

CENTRE
HARVARD

CHURCH
140

UNITED
MANOR WR

CENTRE
116
6
LA CAILLE IVER
CONDOS 10

CALGARY CHINESE
CILTURAL CENTRE
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N.W

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. LR

2 AVENUE SW DAQING AVENUE SW 2 2 AVENUE SW

T

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3
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119
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LOOKOUT EAU CLAIRE MANOR

5 STREET SW
ON THE BOW 2ND ST

CENTRE ST
45 WAI-KWAN TOWER

200-218
SHAW MANOR CENTRE
CALGARY CITY

207
7 STREET SW

COURT LIVINGSTON
POTENTIAL PLACE 15 13 207
12 CENTRE II

W ON
EAU CLAIRE WEST 1 ST SE

ER
TOWER

TO EV

SHOPPING
WEST

CENTRE ST

FAR EAST
RIVE

3AVE SW
116
COURT
TENNIS

3 AVE SE
CENTRE
EXEC- TOWER CALGARY WAH RFRO
LIBERTE EAU LIVINGSTON HON 5 HARVEST 3 AVE SE

138
LUTHERAN

114
PRINCE'S CROSSING EAST

233
CHURCH

SUITE YING
TRINITY

15 CLAIRE TOWER CITY PLACE SOUTH PLAZA 100-6 110 NT AV

PARK
16 14 23 MNS
40 CENTRE APTS 3 AVE SE 3 AVE SE EN
HIL

OFFICE 11 3
16 UE SE
LH

8 STREET SW
UR

3 AVENUE SW
S

3 AVENUE SW
T
BR
ID

633 THIRD 302

EAUCLAIRE
GE

SUNLIFE

EAUCLAIRE
MCDOUGALL 3 AVE SE

BARCLAY MALL
SONOMA LIVINGSTON EAU CLAIRE PAVILLIONS PARKADE

PLACEII
PLACEI
THE

WESTIN
NORTH

3 AVE SE
PLACE HOUSE RETIREMENT OF EAU CLAIRE HOUSE CHURCHILL VERITAS PARKADE 115-119 308 GOOD

123
RIVERFRONT

3AVESE
ESTATES THE WESTIN 28
7 RESIDENCE 2 BLDG 200 CARS 3 AVE SW CITY FORTUNE

119
3 4 PARKADE 310

1 STREET SE
PLAZA

1 STREET SW
3 7 PLAZA GOVERNMENT OF CANADA 403
16 SHELL 312 HARRY HAYS BLDG RIVERFRONT
CENTRE JAMIESON BP 7 8 POINTE RIVERFRONT
CENTRE AVE SE

INTERNATIONAL
32 PLACE SUNLIFE
UNITED 512-528 4 AVE SW
OPTIMA

NEFF BIRCHCLIFF PLAZA

CAESAR’S
THE WESTIN
PLACE

ALBERTA REGENCY 29 316 - 3 ST SE

HOTEL
LOUISE SATION PLACE (RETAIL) ALTIUS GREAT GULF

REST.
APTS
HOUSING 8 10 SERVICES MCFARLANE
TOWER
ENERGY
BUILDING SUITES13 CENTER HOTEL 16 SUNLIFE
WEST SUNLIFE ASIA
DRAGON CITY MALL
FIRST
STREET
(BOOKER’S BBQ
LAND TITLES EAST PACIFIC & CRAB SHACK)
DEVELOPMENT 18
3 5 31 34 28 CENTRE 3 PLAZA
16 28 10 8

4 AVENUE SW 4 AVENUE SW 4 AVENUE SE

6 STREET SW

4 AVE SW
LORRNEL PHILLIPS

NORTHLAND
CANADIAN LONDON FIFTH AVENUE

621
CECIL
REST.

AVATAMSAKA BLDG 619 SELKIRK 4TH DROP-IN CENTRE

R
CENTRE PRINCE' ISLAND HOUSE APTS CALGARY PLACE WEST HOTEL

PLACE
ENMAX

VE
MONASTERY 4 AVE SW HOUSE CANADA
UNDERGROUND

& 4TH YO
LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT

FIFTH AVENUE

TRANSCANADA
PLACE APTS 28 PLACE II

CENTRE STREET
SUBSTATION NO 8 8 METROPOLITAN FL

BEER/WINE
PLACE

PLACE EAST
(626 STALLS)

20 BLDG
MACDOUGALL

CENTRE DELTA BOW

SE

3 STREET SE
PARKADE

PIPELINES
19 410 6 ST 18 34

CECIL
7 VALLEY INN 24

TOWER
TELUS
TR
CENTRE

BLDG
PARK PARK JAMES SHORT PARK LAGIN PLACE YWCA ON
&
24
16 7 NT
THE UNDERGROUND MO
ED

3 STREET SW
CATHOLIC PLACE HERITAGE AQUITAINE TD
FIVE FIVE SUNDANCE 640 PRINCE CHEVRON 34 PARKADE
PLACE

926 PLACE TOWER BANK CALGARY

MNP

SCHOOL WEST WEST 19 19 TRIMAC 5TH AVE SW ROYAL SUITES 520 PLAZA 444 STOCK (880 STALLS)
CENTRE HOUSE HOTEL 19
5TH AVE 5 AVE ROSYLN PLACE I EXCHANGE COURTYARD
1040 21 15 23
22
22 28 TOWER 31 WAYNE FIRE STATION
5 AVE SW 5 27 25 BLDG 10 NUMBER 1
BLDG

5 AVENUE SW 5 AVENUE SW
5 AVENUE SW
5 AVENUE SE 5 AVENUE SE
933 921 SNC 441 FIFTH EPCOR SUNCOR
503 5TH AVE 5TH AVE SERVAL 715 FIFTH THE FIFTH & FIFTH 5TH AVE BOW VALLEY BOW VALLEY LE ROCC
LAVALIN 805 CHATEAU STANDARD BLDG FIVE TEN & THIRD CALGARY PLACE ENERGY EAST BLDG
CENTRE ATRIUM 1 PARKADE AVENUE 30 LIFE BLDG 3 333 8 SQUARE III SQUARE II CENTRE
5TH AVE SW 32 FIFTH BLDG PETROLIUM PARK

CALGARY BOARD
507 4 5 AVENUE 31 38 4

OF EDUCATION
31

4 STREET SW
2 24 18 17 CLUB
8
KNOX 16 NORTHWEST FAMILY OF
HALL 10 2 TRAVELERS
32 BLDG MAN PARK BOW
WEST 52 THE BOW 5 VALLEY
1078 COLLEGE
EDINBURGH

THE

KNOXUNITED
6 AVE SW

6 AVE SE
6 AVE SW SHELBOURNE CENTRIUM 300 7

CHURCH
ITHACAN

404
PLACE

426
THE THE
1010

PLACE 9-6 ATRIUM 2 736 PACIFIC 66 BANTREL PETEX CALGARY PLACE 6 AVE SE
BLDG

BARCLAY MCLEOD CARKETEN 800 BRADIE PARKADE 6TH AVE 16

OIL WEEK SIXTH SIXTH PARKADE TOWER BLDG HOUSE REST BOW VALLEY PARK CAR 3
HOUSE 8 23 TWIN BLDG CHAMBER
SIXTH AVE 17 6 21 OILS 14 11 13
9 SQUARE IV BOW VALLEY RENTAL
BLDG BLDG 2 2 37 SQUARE I OF 2
COMMERCE
6 AVENUE SW 6 AVENUE SW 6 AVENUE SE
6 AVENUE SW
EXECUTIVE

ST.FRANCIS
BARCLAY

CARTER
POTENTIAL 18
PARKADE

CHURCH
6AVESW

TOWER

INTACT PLACE 18

PLACE
BRITANNIA
PARKADE

TELEPHONE
TARJAN POINTE THE
TOWER

EAST
WEST

THE
1011

CENTRE

UTILITIES
PLACE

AMEC 608 BLDG ALPINE FORD POTENTIAL LOUGHEED HANOVER REMAND

AXXIS ROCKY MOUNTAIN PROVINCIAL

BLDG
PLACE CONCORDE BROOKFIELD

BLDG
SUN DEVEL. 15 WEST EAST
DIAL PLACE 608 9 BLDG TOWER PARKADE 225 SIXTH BLDG PLACE ANDREW COURT COURTS CENTRE
157 DEVELOPMENT PLACE 6 COURT 431

3 STREET SE
28 7TH 5 19 DAVISION 18

STRUCTURE
21 6
5 STREET SW
6 STREET SW

COURT STALLS 4 THE BOW HOUSE 6 AVE SE

PARKING
ST SW SURFACE PARK & 24

POLICE
JOHN J. BOWLEN HOUSE UNDERGROUND SOUTH
THE COURT
PARKADE
DOMINION

BLDG OF APPEAL BLOCK

CENTENIAL

LIFE SIERRA
SANDMAN

POTENTIAL PHASE II
CENTRE

PARALLEL NEXEN 800 STALLS CATHEDRAL

PLAZA CITY OF
HOTEL

NORTHLAND PLACE FIRST TELUS (POTENTIAL) WILLIAM R

LEGION
BLDG

ST. REGIS
WEST PLAZA 840 7TH 3 ROCKY

7 AVE SE
CENTRE TELUS BLDG CHURCH OF

HOTEL
BLDG PARK CALGARY POLICE

NO. 1
POINTE 1000 PENTLAND AVE 444 CANADIAN CASTELL CITY

424
17 FIRST CANADIAN TELUS SKY THE REDEEMER MOUNTAIN
PLAZA PLACE 21 10 7TH AVENUE CENTRE PLAZA CENTRAL HEADQUARTERS PARKADE
18 7 10
CENTRE 38 PHASE II 12 8 LIBRARY 3 (300 STALLS)
14 6
2
7TH STREET SW 4TH STREET SW 1ST STREET SW
10 ST SW LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT CITY HALL
8TH STREET SW 6TH STREET SW 3RD STREET SW LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT
CENTRE STREET

7AVESW
BROADCASTING

115-125
SUTTON

MORTGAGE TD
7 AVE SW

109
DELAWARE
NEXEN 2
PLACE

BRIAR

7 AVE SW
BLDG

MANULIFE

1035 BLDG CANADA TRUST DOME

905

O'NEIL GARDEN OLD

REGENCY
GUINNESS
HOUSE

IVEAGH ENCOR CENTRAL

CRAIG

CROWN (RETAIL) CITY HALL

BLDG

BLDG
7 AVE SW NEXEN ELVEDEN TOWER SCOTIA

HYATT
HOTEL
TOWERS TOWERS HOUSE HOUSE PLACE PARKADE BAILY HOLT TOWER TORONTO DOMINION SQUARE UNITED OLD CITY ADMINISTRATION
CENTRE 34 CENTRE
10 STREET SW

TOWER BLDG 40

MACLEOD TRAIL SE
8 STREET SW

15 20 14 23 RENFREW 40 CHURCH HALL BUILDING

9 STREET SW

HUDSONS BAY 4

1 STREET SE
12 3 TELUS 4
COMPANY

7 AVENUE SW
WATERMARK

CONVENTION
6 CENTRE
8 AVE SW

TOWER

THE CORE (DOWNTOWN RETAIL CORRIDOR) OLYMPIC PLAZA

1040

UNIONBLDG
(200STALLS)

716- 720

STRATEGIC
CAMPEAU

MONTREAL
8THAVE
PARKADE

WESTERN

LANCASTER

BANK OF

NORMAN
CENTRE

DOWNTOWN

DOMINION
1010

ST. LOUIS
TORONTO
1000 PARKADE CENTURY

DOLLBLDG
BLOCK
POTENTIAL

NEILSONBLK
618-628

HOTEL
HOME OIL

8 AVE SE
U OF C RAMADA HOTEL SCOTIA

THOMSON
HOLIDAY INN 8 AVE SW 8 AVE SW

BLDG

BANK
GARDENS

VENINI
KRAFT BLDG
1034

36 PROJECT

BLDG
8 AVE SW CALGARY

424A
PETROFINA BARRON BLDG TOWER CLARENCE
CCH

CAMPUS PARK 4 CALGARY EATON DEVONIAN GARDENS CENTRE

27 2012

BLK
BLDG 11 2
9 (RETAIL) 11 33 3 BLOCK 3
MUNICIPAL
12 6 CENTRE 4 4TH LEVEL
9 3 2 BUILDING 3
4 13
8 AVENUE SW 8 AVENUE SW STEPHEN AVENUE
4 STREET SW

STEPHEN AVENUE
7
PARKPLACE

CIBC

LEESON &
2 STREET SW
AXYS

HOLLINGS-WORTH
FIRST WESTERN CANADIAN CALGARY PUBLIC
3 STREET SW

LINEHAM
8 AVENUE

8AVESE
1298AVESW
THEATRE

ROYAL BANK
CENTURY

WARD BLK

429-31
THE OLD

ALBERTA
HSBC
SCOTCH

BANKOF
GLOBE

8 AVE SW
BLDG 109-123

BLOCK
PAN BLDG 635 ALBERTA 221 - 227 FLAMES BLDG
BLDG

PLACE NORTH

BLOCK
RILEYS

SCOTIA
ALBERTA PLAINS

NOVA
PAIN BLK
411

WESTVIEW SHAW BLDG

101
ARCTIC ALBERTA 8 AVE SW (RETAIL) BURNS
BLDG

8 WEST HEIGHTS PLACE 8 AVE SW MIDSTREAM TREASURY 8 AVE SW CENTRAL

9 BLDG

BLDG
PLAZA 40 10 (RETAIL) PALACE HOTEL BLDG

CENTRE STREET
BRANCH 9
3

CONVENTION
41 23
7 STREET SW

14 25 13 2 4

CENTRE
1 STREET SW
11 2 3 BANKERS BANKERS 2

TELUS
EAST HALL WEST
WEST 24 HALL EAST CALGARY GLENBOW
TOWER TOWER TOWER
CENTRAL TOWER EIGHTH EAST MARRIOTT MUSEUM

EXCHANGEBLDG
TOWER

50 CALGARY CENTRE FOR THE

TOWER

ALBERTAGRAIN

EDWARDS
HOTEL
EAST
WEST

ANIMAL
HOUSE

AVENUE PLACETOWER 4 PERFORMING ARTS

PLACE
ROAD

HOSPITAL GIBRALTER WESTERN CENTENNIAL PARKADE 50 BANKERS

ENTERPRISE PLACE 902 ENMAX CANADIAN (1000 STALLS) COURT ENCANA LE GERMAIN CIVIC PLAZA 17 SALVATION ARMY
CAR RENTAL THE CONTINENTAL PLACE SOUTH PARKADE UNDERGROUND PARKADE CENTRE OF HOPE
9 AVE SW SUBSTATION NO.1 49 PLACE
30 28 500 STALLS
6 & SURFACE PARK
9 AVENUE SW 9 AVENUE SW 9 AVENUE SW 9 AVENUE SE

PENN WEST
CENTRON POTENTIAL
9AVESW

CRYSTAL PLAZA PENN WEST 6

DOWNTOWN
907

GLASS WEST TOWER PLAZA POTENTIAL PALLISER 303

PALLISER SQUARE FORDING MACLEOD TR DISTRICT ENERGY
CANADA GULF CANDA EAST TOWER ONE PALLISER BLDG CENTRE
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10 AVE SW

10 AVENUE SW 10 AVENUE SW 10 AVENUE SE

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10 STREET SW

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CANADIAN ECTURE
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Figure 2-6: Plus 15 Pedestrian Heat Map

COURT

7
CAM

S
HELENE

Plus 15 Network Study | Page 14

Plus 15 Policy | 18
Why do people use the Plus 15?
To gain insight into the usage of the Plus 15, an online questionnaire was conducted in
March 2018 where over 2,300 citizens responded.

From the online questionnaire, the responses received were:

• During poor weather over 51 per cent of respondents indicate they use the network more
than ten times per week.
• The Plus 15 network is utilized more heavily during the day with 43 per cent of respondents
indicating that they never use the network on evenings or weekends.
• Three per cent of respondents indicated a preference to use the sidewalk rather than the
Plus 15 network.

From the online questionnaire, the top five reasons the Plus 15 is used is because it:
• Is weather-protected
• Provides access to work
• Makes it easier to cross streets
• Provides access to shopping and restaurants
• Provides faster and more direct travel routes.

The Plus 15 network enables walking, even during severe weather, and allows for mass
movement of people through the downtown. During the high demand times, the Plus 15
network provides access to food, retail and other amenities. During the morning and afternoon
peak periods, the Plus 15 network connects people to many transportation options like light rail
transit, bus rapid transit, buses, parkades and cycling routes.

As observed in other major cities, secondary pedestrian networks like the Plus 15 network
move large volumes of people during the morning, lunchtime and afternoon peak periods
within downtown.

Public safety and accessibility

The Plus 15 network provides a safe travel choice for pedestrians by eliminating conflicts
between pedestrians, vehicles/cyclists. In the winter months where outdoor sidewalks may be
covered with slush, ice and snow, it enables safe, reliable, all weather travel for users of all ages
and abilities.

Access to cultural district and tourism

The Plus 15 also supports the cultural district with connections from Arts Commons and the
Glenbow Museum to underground parking in adjacent buildings. It provides safe, convenient,
weather-protected access to the cultural district and helps to draw citizens and tourists
downtown to experience arts, culture and our city.

Additionally, school-aged children are often observed in the Plus 15 for an educational
excursion. The network has proven capacity to move school groups safely and efficiently.

Plus 15 Policy | 19
Social connections
The Plus 15 network is a place where social connections occur. When the Plus 15 was being
conceived, one underlying benefit was that it would make downtown more humane. The Plus 15
has become a networking hub where people often “run” into each other. It is a space that allows
people to connect and interact with one another.

Arts and vistas

Due to its unique views, the Plus 15 has become a popular destination for different artistic
endeavors like photography and sketching. Photographers are drawn to the Plus 15 due to its
elevated view throughout the downtown in a weather-protected environment. Sketching clubs
have also met in the Plus 15 network in order to capture the unique views.

Figure 9: Sketches at the Plus 15 level created by Rod Zillman (left) and Belinda Ramscar
(right) of Calgary Urban Sketchers

Health and wellness

In a winter city like Calgary, maintaining an active lifestyle during the cold winter months can be
challenging. With over 16 kilometers of weather-protected and climate-controlled walkways, the
Plus 15 network draws in walkers for exercise and recreation. Walking clubs can be found within
the Plus 15 year-round due to its safety and predictability. Daycare operators also utilize the Plus
15 network to give young children exercise and a change of scenery.

During public engagement, seniors identified that connectivity to the Plus 15 network was an
influencing factor when choosing a place to reside. The Plus 15 network allows people to travel
independently throughout downtown, something that may not be possible at the street level.

Plus 15 Policy | 20
Appendix B: Background
History
The origins of Calgary’s Plus 15 network dates to 1963 but the concept was not realized until
Urban Renewal Scheme No. 1 in 1965. In 1966, the Plus 15 concept was first introduced in a
Planning Department document called “The Future of Downtown Calgary”. Public areas on the
Plus 15 level were then incorporated into the 1970 Development Control Bylaw (Bylaw 8600).

Harold Hanen, a former City of Calgary Planner, recognized the opportunities of the Plus 15
network for Calgary and championed the system. The first Plus 15 bridge was constructed in
1969 and connects the Westin Hotel to Calgary Place over 4th Avenue S.W. between 2nd and
3rd Street S.W.

Plus 15 Must Policy

In 1975, an interim policy was developed for the Plus 15 network where Plus 15 Bonus options
were replaced with a Plus 15 Must Area. In the Plus 15 Must Area, minimum requirements of
the Plus 15 network were to be implemented regardless of bonus utilization and it was directed
that The City obtain public easement areas through developments for the Plus 15 network. The
intent of the Plus 15 network was to provide grade-separated pedestrian linkages, primarily in
the north/south direction to overcome the heavy vehicular volumes in the east/west roadways.
It was also thought that the Plus 15 could eventually provide linkages to inner city communities
like the Beltline, Victoria Park and Prince’s Island.

Operational challenges were also highlighted in the 1975 “Report on The Calgary +15 System”.
Challenges identified included: easement acquisition, land use requirements, policing, design
guidelines, signage and maintenance requirements.

1984 +15 Policy

The 1984 +15 Policy was developed to describe the form of Plus 15 development planned for
downtown Calgary with a primary focus on the growth and development of the Plus 15 network.
Additionally, it supplemented the Land Use Bylaw and provided a basis for development
agreements with The City and property owners in the areas of operations and maintenance.

Calgary’s Greater Downtown Plan

Calgary’s Greater Downtown Plan: Roadmap to Reinvention sets out the vision, roadmap and
commitment to build a thriving, future-focused downtown over the next decade and beyond.
Strategic moves include:
• Neighbourhoods for vibrant urban life
• A green network for a healthy environment
• Streets for people
• Transit for all
• Future-proof and innovate for the next generation

Plus 15 Policy | 21
Actions for the Plus 15 network include:
• Pilot placemaking opportunities and ways to animate the Plus 15 network, making it
a destination.
• Pursue opportunities to proactively construct missing Plus 15 network links, as identified in
the Plus 15 Network Study, 2019.
• Modernize wayfinding so street-level access points are easy to identify and navigation within
the Plus 15 network is improved.
• Integrate the Plus 15 network with LRT stations and enhance street-level entrances that
connect to transit hubs.
• Enhance accessibility within the Plus 15 network so it can be used by citizens of all ages
and abilities.

Plus 15 Policy | 22