Questions & Answers

Project Overview

Why is the Town doing this work?

  • Renewing essential infrastructure: Aging water and sewer systems beneath North Railway Street, Poplar Avenue, Alberta Avenue and Lineham Avenue require replacement to maintain reliable service.
  • Revitalizing downtown: The Town is modernizing the downtown area based on community feedback from the 2020 and 2024 Main Street public and business engagement sessions and years of downtown policy and planning work.
  • Supporting community priorities: Revitalizing the downtown supports the Town's goals to attract new businesses, make conditions better for our existing businesses, and create more vibrant and welcoming community spaces.

Community Engagement & History

How has community input shaped the project?

  • Resident and business feedback helped shape the design. We carefully considered how businesses operate and how improved public spaces can better support them.
  • Review the What We Learned Report summarizing public engagement.

What is the history of downtown Okotoks?

  • Downtown has been the heart of Okotoks for over 100 years—a gathering place for businesses, celebrations and community events.
  • These improvements ensure it continues to thrive for generations to come.

Learn more: Downtown Story

Construction Progress & Timeline

What’s happening in 2026?

Phase 2 of the Downtown Improvement Project will begin in the spring of 2026 along North Railway Street between Alberta Avenue and McRae Street, plus work on Alberta Avenue itself. Work will include:

  • Replacement of aging underground water and sewer networks
  • Moving overhead powerlines and utilities underground
  • Widening of sidewalks and boulevard enhancements
  • Improved street lighting and enhanced pedestrian crossings
  • Upgrades to Triangle Park
  • Continued streetscape improvements (trees, seating, bike racks, lighting)

Phase 2 work also includes a new waterline crossing beneath the railway tracks at Lineham Avenue. Work is scheduled in spring 2026 and will require a temporary closure of Lineham Avenue between North Railway and South Railway Streets.

How long will the 2026 work take?

Construction will continue through the 2026 season, progressing in phases to minimize disruption. Most work will occur between spring and fall, with final landscaping and finishing touches completed before winter.

Design & Features

What design changes can residents and visitors expect?

  • Wider, accessible sidewalks and improved crossings.
  • More boulevard trees, greenery and decorative plantings.
  • Upgraded street furniture and lighting.
  • Enhanced public areas designed for community use, patios and events.
  • Better connections between Main Street, Triangle and Pisttoo Parks.

What improvements are happening in Pisttoo and Triangle Parks?

  • Redesigned for accessibility and community gathering.
  • New landscaping, seating and open areas for families to enjoy.
  • Improved pedestrian links to Main Street.
  • Updated lighting and pathways for comfort and safety.

What’s happening with downtown trees?

  • Mature trees have been preserved wherever possible to maintain downtown’s character.
  • Seven were removed at Pisttoo Park and 42 new trees are being planted throughout the downtown in phases 1 and 2.
  • This results in a net increase in trees, providing shade, environmental benefits and long-term beautification.
  • As new trees mature, canopies will rise above storefronts, maintaining visibility while adding greenery.

Transportation & Access

How will traffic be managed in 2026?

  • Construction will occur in phases to maintain access for vehicles, pedestrians and deliveries. Disruptions to sidewalks will occur, however access to businesses will be preserved.
  • Detours and alternate routes will be clearly signed.
  • The new Lineham Avenue roundabout will help traffic circulate smoothly even when trains are crossing.
  • A final water main installation is required at the CPKC railway beneath Lineham Avenue. This work will be constructed in 2026 and will require a closure of Lineham Avenue, however the remaining three legs of the roundabout will continue to be open. This will be for a portion of the construction season only.

How will pedestrian and business access be maintained?

  • Temporary access walkways will be constructed to ensure ongoing access to all businesses and residences.
  • The Town continues to work closely with business owners to coordinate construction schedules and signage. Businesses with questions are encouraged to contact the Okotoks Engineering Department at engineering@okotoks.ca or 403-995-6337
  • When all construction is complete and the street is restored to its final design, vehicle and pedestrian access will be fully reopened.

Who clears snow from new sidewalks and boulevards?

  • Property owners are responsible for sidewalks directly in front of their buildings.
  • The Town clears streets, parking areas, and designated boulevards.

Details: okotoks.ca/your-services/maintenance/snow-clearing

    Project Benefits

    How will these improvements benefit Okotoks?

    For the community:

    • A safer, more walkable and more inviting downtown core.
    • Enhanced accessibility for all ages and abilities.
    • Beautiful public spaces and parks that encourage connection and civic pride.

    For businesses:

    • A more attractive environment that draws visitors and supports local businesses.
    • Opportunities for expanded patios, outdoor retail and community programming.
    • Improved streetscape visibility, lighting and accessibility for customers.

    For the environment:

    • Greener, more sustainable urban space with increased tree canopy.
    • Improved stormwater management and climate resilience.
    • More comfortable, pedestrian-friendly spaces with trees and greenery that make walking and spending time downtown more enjoyable.

    For the economy and future growth:

    • Enhanced downtown identity that attracts new investment and continues to strengthen our local businesses.
    • Supporting long-term economic growth and diversification of the tax base.
    • A more vibrant, active downtown that supports both residents and visitors.

    Events & Community Life

    What’s happening with downtown events?

    • Upcoming 2026 downtown events may be temporarily adjusted or relocated depending on the construction schedule.
    • Events in Olde Towne Plaza (Stephenson Park) and near the Okotoks Arts & Learning Campus will continue as usual.
    • Once construction is complete, Main Street will be even better suited for markets, parades and festivals.

    Find all event information at okotoks.ca/events

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