The Stephen Avenue Revitalization project between 1st Street SE and Centre Street in downtown Calgary is complete, bringing renewed infrastructure and public-realm improvements to this block of the historic pedestrian corridor.
The upgrades improve the pedestrian experience through renewed water, stormwater, electrical and surface infrastructure, while enhancing accessibility and supporting year-round activity in one of Calgary’s most prominent public spaces.
Project Features
Along Stephen Avenue, Calgarians and visitors will notice new streetscape features designed to support everyday activity, festivals, events and outdoor dining. At the same time, critical infrastructure was replaced to provide reliable long-term service to the downtown core.
Above ground, the project introduced new benches, bike racks, waste bins, trees, planters, illuminated bollards, enhanced concrete sidewalks and durable granite pavers designed to withstand Calgary’s climate.
Below ground, aging water, stormwater and electrical infrastructure was replaced to improve system reliability and resilience. Some utilities beneath this section of the avenue were more than 100 years old and had reached the end of their service life, making renewal essential to support future growth and activity downtown.
The revitalization also introduced a soil cell system to support healthier urban trees. Unlike traditional concrete tree boxes, the system provides additional space for root growth while capturing stormwater runoff to support natural irrigation. This approach helps trees thrive, protects surrounding pavement and reflects the City’s updated standard for urban tree planting.
Construction Schedule
As Construction Manager under a CMAR delivery model, Graham was involved from preconstruction through execution, helping identify risks early, coordinate stakeholders, maintain business access and develop an efficient construction strategy.
Construction began in May 2025 and was completed in June 2026, several months ahead of the original November 2026 completion date. Through careful planning and coordination, the project team accelerated the schedule to ensure the avenue was ready in time for the Calgary Stampede. The restored section of Stephen Avenue reopened to residents and visitors one week ahead of the revised schedule.
Public Impact
Given the project’s highly visible downtown location, Graham worked closely with businesses, property owners and community partners throughout construction to maintain transparency, minimize disruption and preserve access along the avenue. Careful planning and ongoing communication helped pedestrians continue accessing businesses, restaurants, offices and event spaces while work progressed.
The concentration of historic buildings along Stephen Avenue also required a strong focus on heritage protection and preservation. Graham implemented vibration monitoring throughout construction to identify and mitigate potential risks, helping protect the avenue’s historic character while critical infrastructure was renewed.
Safety remained a priority throughout the project. Site personnel completed the work with zero lost-time injuries, reflecting Graham’s commitment to protecting workers, stakeholders and the public.
Through collaboration, careful planning and a focus on quality, Graham successfully revitalized one block of Stephen Avenue while balancing historic preservation with modern infrastructure needs. The completed project provides a safer, more accessible and resilient public space while supporting the continued growth and vitality of downtown Calgary.
