Bike Calgary statement on the “War on Cars” discussion in City Council
Bike Calgary, appreciates the recent City Council debate on the Marda Loop redevelopment and parking minimums. This discussion highlights the need for balanced, equitable urban planning, rather than framing mobility choices as conflict. This is not a “war on cars.” Given Calgary has just experienced one of its worst periods for pedestrian and cyclist deaths and injuries, we encourage civic leaders to spend less time on rhetoric and more time focusing on the safety of all Calgarians. The proposed 44-unit development, with relaxed parking minimums to 12 stalls, reflects real market demand: over half of nearby households own one or zero vehicles. Approving the land use change (11-4 vote) supports denser, affordable housing near transit and amenities, reducing car dependency where it makes sense. This isn't an attack on drivers.…
