Bow River Pathway

"I experience the Bow River Pathway as a place that is very welcoming. What stands out right away is that everyone uses it. It does not matter who you are; people from very different backgrounds all share the same space. You see a mix of people, and that is what gives it strength. It feels open and inclusive in a very direct way. It is not designed for one group; it is used by many. There is something important about that kind of shared space. It brings people together without forcing it. It simply works because it is accessible and easy to be in. For me, that quality of being used by everyone is what makes it exemplary. It shows how a simple environment can support a diverse urban life." (Adapted from interview material. Edited for clarity while preserving the participant’s voice)

"I particularly remember visiting… …Calgary’s Bow River Waterfront. As a cyclist, I use the riverfront shared pathway network for communizing and recreation, but every time I journey to the river, I feel I am enjoying the absolute best parts of the city. I love seeing people from all different walks of life out sharing the pathways, enjoying the weather, relaxing on the riverfront, stopping for food or happening upon a street performance. The riverfront is where the city is at is most vibrant, where Calgarians mingle with Calgarians against the backdrop of our unique riparian ecology. Even in the coldest, darkest times of the year, the riverfront is an activated hub, with the most dedicated citizens bundled up and out for a jog, watching the ice flow, or enjoying the winter lights. I believe the Bow Riverfront exemplifies quality as it is shared by the public, is accessible to all modes of non-vehicular transport including to those living with disabilities or those with limited income, it is highly navigable, provides space and opportunity for creative initiatives and installations and brings Calgarians both outdoors and closer together. It simply pulses with life and is quintessentially Calgary." (Booklet Positive Lived Experiences of Quality in the Built Environment 2023, p.209). Google map link: https://www.google.com/maps?q=loc:51.0478528,-114.0470722 The Bow Riverfront on an autumn day. Traci Berg

"I particularly enjoy the pathway along the Bow River. I can go downtown, to grocery stores and shops in good time. I can choose to walk, run, or bike.  I can stay connected with nature- with expanding view of the river, the meadow along the hills, the regular sights of geese, beavers, birds…Across the train track, I can walk along the river or get lost among trees.  I could feel connected to the story of the Canadian railroad, the lives of those who helped build the city and the respect for contemplative space in the middle of the city." (Booklet Positive Lived Experiences of Quality in the Built Environment 2023, p.243). Google map link: https://goo.gl/maps/MFna7mLUdDJKJvN79

I positive experience I have is with the Bow River pathway system in Calgary, which is an extensive urban pathway system running through much of the city centre and river valley. The pathways connect many of the city’s cultural heritage sites and leisure areas as well as several protected natural areas and wetland habitats including a migratory bird sanctuary, provincial park, and fish hatchery. I believe this area does a good job of highlighting the social, natural, and historical features of the city whilst demonstrating the ways in which they can successfully overlap. I also think that it is highly valued by the local community, and evidence of its quality is reflected in its popularity, maintenance, and year-round use. It is relatively easy to access due to its proximity to public transit and major roads, and its location in the city centre (though it also extends further out into the city where the population density is lower and it is less heavily used). However, since the city is so large (by area) and spread out, it is not equally accessible to the whole population. It is also important to consider the people who may not feel welcome or comfortable using such public spaces, as it runs through major commercial/business-dense areas (many catering to higher-income households) as well as through several very ‘desirable’ neighbourhoods with high housing costs and often a significant police presence." (Booklet Positive Lived Experiences of Quality in the Built Environment 2024 p. 61).