A lot of Calgarians are upset with the plan to shut down two lanes of Memorial Drive on Sundays in August.
"There's already a bike lane there," says Alan Carter. "We need the other two lanes for traffic because it's already blocked up most days."
The City had decided to close both eastbound lanes, between 3rd Street and 10 Street N.W., so pedestrians and cyclists can use the area.
"It's about creating a healthy city, a vibrant city and giving people the opportunity to go out and enjoy the river," says Alderman Druh Farrell.
Alderman Ric McIver says he supports the idea of getting people outside and active but closing part of Memorial Drive is not the answer. "There are some bad ideas and this is a very bad idea," says McIver.
Even those who already enjoy outdoor activities in the area are questioning the move. "I think there's enough green space. I mean, we run there every Sunday and it's never been a problem. If you're going to create green space, create green space, don't take away traffic space," says Jen Elford.
During the partial closure, all vehicles will have to share the two westbound lanes.
Drivers are also being encouraged to use 16 Avenue North as an alternate route.
Staff with the roads department will watch traffic flow to determine whether the pilot project can be expanded or whether it creates more problems for drivers.
The idea of creating a temporary pedestrian promenade is not unique to Calgary.
In Winnipeg, an inner-city road is closed for four months every year to give cyclists and joggers more room.
