River Avenue Bridge (Pedestrian and multi-modal conversion)
Active project
No
Schedule
July 2025
Location
River Avenue Bridge
In July 2025, Cochrane’s historic River Avenue Bridge was closed to regular vehicle traffic and converted into a dedicated pedestrian and active transportation corridor.
Prompted by new development on the western end of Riviera, the Town of Cochrane is connecting River Heights Rise to Riviera Way. This change enabled:
full emergency and public vehicle access to River Heights Rise via the new Riviera Way connection.
the closure of River Avenue Bridge to regular vehicle traffic, while maintaining access for pedestrians, cyclists, e-scooter users, emergency services and maintenance vehicles through a secure gate system.
reduced vehicle use on the bridge, leading to lower maintenance requirements and an extended lifespan.
Vehicle traffic changes
Starting in July 2025, public vehicle access to River Heights Rise will be available only via Riviera Way. River Avenue Bridge will be closed to regular vehicle traffic but will remain open to pedestrians, cyclists, e-scooter users, emergency services and maintenance crews through a secure, controlled access gate.
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The detour for vehicle access to River Heights Rise via Riviera Way begins in July 2025.
Residences currently accessed via River Avenue Bridge will be permanently rerouted through the Riviera neighbourhood, using Riviera Way.
No. Due to the grade of the road, a connection between River Heights Rise and River Heights Drive is not a viable option for community traffic.
Traffic on Riviera Way is expected to increase by only two residences as a result of this change.
Increased safety
Reliable emergency services access to residences south of the Bow River.
Enhanced safety for pedestrians and cyclists through the permanent conversion of the bridge into an active transportation route.
Reduced wear and tear on the bridge structure, extending its service life.
Potential for improved public use of the space while maintaining critical emergency and pedestrian access.
Emergency vehicles will have full access to River Heights Rise via Riviera Way.
In certain emergency situations, not all response vehicles can use the bridge. A secure gate system will be installed to allow access for emergency vehicles that can safely cross. The Town has worked closely with emergency service providers to ensure a seamless transition.
Additional questions?
For more information or project updates, contact Cochrane Operations at 403-851-2590.
