Improving pathway connections across Cochrane
Background:
This project will improve Cochrane’s pathway network by creating better connections between Heartland, Heritage Hills, Glenbow and the Historic Cochrane Ranche Site.
A new pathway and pedestrian bridge connection will link to the pathway improvements completed as part of the Highway 1A/22 Interchange Project. The new connection will address a key gap in the pathway network by crossing a small section of the CPKC right of way south of Highway 1A and Big Hill Creek.
The project also includes:
- Paving the existing red shale pathway along the south side of the CPKC right of way, connecting the Glenbow pathway to the new paved pathway near Highway 22.
- Paving the existing gravel pathway along the west side of the Historic Cochrane Ranche Site parking lot to improve safety and accessibility for pathway users.
- Building a paved pathway connection along the west side of Highway 22 to Quigley Drive.
Scope:
The following work is proposed as part of this project to establish improved connectivity.
CPKC Crossing:
The CPKC crossing is planned to include two pedestrian bridges over Big Hill Creek. These bridges will connect the pathway at the Highway 1A underpass to the pathway along eastbound Highway 1A.
Improvements are also planned for the pathway beneath the CPKC railway bridge to create a better pathway alignment and help reduce minor flooding in the area.
Design work is currently underway. Construction in this area is subject to CPKC approval and all required regulatory approvals.
Paving existing pathway connection between Glenbow pathway and Highway 22:
The existing red shale pathway just south of the CPKC right of way between Glenbow and the recent paved Highway 22 pathway is planned to be improved and paved.
Separation of pathway through Historic Cochrane Ranche Site parking lot:
Paving the existing gravel pathway along the west side of the historic Ranche site parking lot
The existing pathway will be paved to improve safety, accessibility and connectivity from the historic Ranche to the highway 1A pathway improvements
Connection of existing pathway along Highway 22 west side, south to Quigley Drive:
A pathway connection between the existing pathway and Quigley Drive will be built on the wets side of Highway 22.
Schedule:
The project is divided into two phases: 2026 Conceptual & Detailed Design for the pathway and bridge infrastructure and 2027 Construction. Construction is planned for 2027 assuming regulatory approvals are acquired and pending CPKC’s approval of the pathway alignment and associated infrastructure.