Illumination Project to Animate Calgary Underpass

Illuminate Calgary Underpass

 July 12, 2016

Calgary city councillors have approved a plan to illuminate a downtown underpass variously described as “scary” and “a space of fear.” The project will feature interactive lighting that will change as pedestrians approach, offering a creative solution to an unsafe eyesore, and is part of a larger $6.7 million revitalization of the underpass. 

More than 8,000 pedestrians use the 4th Street SW underpass each weekday, but many report feeling uncomfortable or unsafe, particularly at night. The underpass connects the downtown core with the “Beltline,” a densely populated urban neighbourhood featuring apartments, condos and offices. The term Beltline comes from an early 20th-century streetcar route.

The 4th St. illumination project, created by Marc Boutin Architectural Collaborative and artist Krzysztof Wodiezko, was one of several design concepts considered by the city. According to the project proposal, “the introduction of animated light and colour, responding to the flow of people through the space, ensures the redesign remains evocative, varied and timeless… Integrated into the frame, the animated surface introduces a capacity for multiple readings and emergent experiences which amplify the city as a space for interaction. Activation of the wall surface is triggered by the presence of the body; in live time, animated light escorts visitors they move through the underpass. The capacity of sensors to detect movement and proximity enables visitors to deliberately augment the response of the light as they move through the space.”

Illuminate Calgary Underpass

The public art lighting strategy comprises three interrelated lighting components: 

• screen lighting: responsive, high-resolution, pixel-based fixtures; hosts the lighting narrative (between bridges)

• veil lighting: responsive, low-resolution, linear-based fixtures; extends the public art lighting strategy as an urban gesture (through the veil)

• frame lighting: non-responsive, low-resolution, linear-based; conditions the experience of the pedestrian through light (under bridges)

Both the veil and the screen lighting will respond to the presence of people in the space.

A portion of the funding — $2.2 million — will come from two development-funded sources: the Beltline Community Investment Fund and the city’s public art capital deposit program. 

Construction is scheduled to begin this summer and finish by the end of 2017.

Related Articles


Changing Scene

  • Noramco-Announces-Samantha-Boernsen-as-New-Regional-Sales-Manager-Winnipeg

    Noramco Announces Samantha Boernsen as New Regional Sales Manager, Winnipeg

    Please join Noramco in welcoming Samantha Boernsen as Regional Sales Manager, Winnipeg! Samantha brings a wealth of experience in the electrical industry, with a strong focus on lighting, marketing strategy, and customer engagement. She has built her career on connecting technical expertise with real-world application, making her a trusted partner to clients and colleagues alike.… Read More…

  • July 7, 2025 - Light Years Ahead SkyView by BIOS Launches in BC with Mac’s II Agencies

    Light Years Ahead: SkyView by BIOS Launches in BC with Mac’s II Agencies

    Mac’s II Agencies is proud to represent SkyView by BIOS Lighting across British Columbia. As the first agency in BC to bring this innovative brand to market, they are excited to help launch a new chapter for SkyView—a new company rooted in cutting-edge science and committed to wellness through light. This addition to Mac’s II Agencies’ lighting… Read More…


Design

  • What You Need to Consider When Choosing Data Center Lighting

    What You Need to Consider When Choosing Data Center Lighting

    When operating a data center, the lighting syst​em is often not the most concerned part. Actually, lighting system performance directly influences whole electricity consumption and operating costs, especially in a 24-hour non-stop data center. This article will delve into the key factors to be considered when choosing data center lighting. For enterprises that are planning to… Read More…

  • Artika: 5 Advantages of Smart Lighting

    Artika: 5 Advantages of Smart Lighting

    Lighting is arguably one of the most important features of any home. Too bright, and it can be abrasive, increasing your sensitivity to light. Too dim, and it hides the unique characteristics of your home and can have adverse effects on your mood. When you design your home, the type of lighting and fixtures you… Read More…


New Products

  • RENO Lighting: Lucid Series Ambient Bi-Directional Luminaire

    RENO Lighting: Lucid Series Ambient Bi-Directional Luminaire

    The Lucid Series Bi-Directional Luminaire is an ultra-slim, contemporary light designed for performance. It provides seamless, dot-free upward and downward illumination with a 50/50 direct-indirect distribution. Its translucent lens creates an elegant, diffused glow resembling natural daylight that brings warmth to any environment.​ Designed for modern, design- forward interiors, the Lucid Bi- Directional Luminaire is… Read More…

  • Eralux: New OCEANO Outdoor Wall Sconce

    Eralux: New OCEANO Outdoor Wall Sconce

    The OCEANO outdoor sconce features an elegant design, offering up and down lighting. With IP65 weatherproofing, it’s built for durability. Its sleek, modern design and robust construction make it perfect for both aesthetic appeal and long-lasting performance in any outdoor setting. Applications: Commercial Entrances | Outdoor Landscapes | Facades | Residential Exteriors Read More…