The city will re-label existing single-stall washrooms in city buildings to make them gender-neutral.

Amelia Marie Newbert transitioned to her intended gender a year ago, and says she is pleased with council’s decision, but would like to see it include multi-stall washrooms as well.

“I see it as a really strong step forward, it’s a very small step and there is still a lot of work to do, but it is a step that has immense significance to the trans and especially non-binary and gender-diverse community.”

She said without more understanding, the trans experience can be difficult.

"I think a lot of tran individuals are nervous using the washrooms, they're sort of stigmatized, nervous of comments that are said behind their back or said to their faces, and fear of physical confrontation is very real,” she said.

Ward 11 Councillor Brian Pincott put forward the motion after consulting with Calgary’s LGBTQ community and heard that many feel anxiety when using public washrooms. He said when new buildings are built, purchased or retrofitted, gender-neutral washrooms should be considered.

"We need to make sure going forward that it's not an afterthought but it's inclusive from day one,” he said.

The city is not the first to make this kind of change. About a month ago, the YMCA announced its newest facility in Quarry Park will have gender-neutral change rooms.