Reimagine 5th Street South: A Vision For the Future

The City of Lethbridge is developing a preliminary design for 5th Street South, between 1 Avenue South and 6 Avenue South, to lay the groundwork for upcoming infrastructure upgrades. This project aims to transform the area into a vibrant, connected urban space that enhances both functionality and community experience.

Provide your feedback on preliminary concept designs: Take the survey (open January 22, 2026)

Watch the short video describing the vibrant and bustling history of 5 Street South, Lethbridge's historic main street.

Key Features of 5 Street South from 1 Avenue to 6 Avenue South:

• Wide Roadway: Four north-south lanes provide ample capacity for traffic flow.
• Downtown Retail Strip: The street serves as a bustling hub for local businesses.
• Diverse Architecture: The structures along 5th Street South vary in intensity and character, with historic two- and three-story buildings to the north, a 12-story structure at Melcor Centre, and lower-density buildings to the south.

Where we are today: Preliminary design

The Preliminary Design phase marks the beginning of planning for construction projects. During this stage, an engineering consultant is engaged to identify the essential elements needed to move the project forward. These elements lay the foundation for the next phases - detailed design and construction - which will proceed only after City Council approval and funding are secured.

Key Activities in the Preliminary Design Phase

• Engaging Stakeholders and the Public: Gathering feedback and preferences to shape the project vision.
• Assessing Conditions: Evaluating environmental, ground, and utility conditions.
• Enhancing Safety: Identifying and proposing safety improvements.
• Improving Public Spaces: Considering enhancements to create vibrant, accessible areas.
• Determining Property Needs: Identifying required spaces for the project.
• Selecting Construction Methods: Establishing approaches for efficient and effective project delivery.
• Estimating Costs: Providing preliminary cost estimates for future work.

The preliminary design phase guides the transformation of 5 Street South into a connected corridor that supports a vibrant and welcoming public realm. This project is part of the Capital Improvement Program 2022 to 2031, project D-41.

How Can You Participate?

• Reviewing the concepts when presented.
• Sharing your feedback and concerns with the project team.
• Following updates on this webpage.
• Participating in online surveys and attending future open house events as the project progresses.
  • Community Conversations, January 29
  • Community Survey: Help us Shape 5th Street S! (open January 22 to February 5, 2026)

What is a Preliminary Design?

A Preliminary Design is the starting point for planning infrastructure improvements. It defines the project’s scope, layout, and cost estimates while assessing technical, environmental, and community needs. This early-stage plan is not final and does not authorize construction.

What are the Benefits of a Preliminary Design?

• Community-Centric Approach: Engages the public and stakeholders to ensure the design aligns with community values and needs.
• Informed Decision-Making: Provides city council and management with a clear understanding of potential benefits, costs, and impacts before advancing to the next phase.
• Resource Efficiency: Identifies challenges and opportunities early, minimizing risks and unexpected costs later in the process.
• Future Flexibility: Allows detailed design and construction timelines to align with council approvals and funding priorities.

How is Preliminary Design Different from Detailed Design?

The Preliminary Design phase focuses on shaping the overall layout and feasibility of the project, incorporating input from stakeholders and the public. It serves as an early planning stage that does not authorize construction but sets the groundwork for further consultation and approvals. The next steps, such as detailed design and construction, will depend on City Council approval and budget allocation. The Detailed Design phase builds on this foundation by developing precise specifications, construction plans, and timelines. Construction will only proceed once the detailed design is complete and funding is approved by City Council. No timeline has been determined at this stage in the project.