A Swiss university did a deep dive into Calgary's 'missing middle.'

Researchers from ETH Zurich studied Calgary's urban design and found that the city lacks buildings that would promote denser and more efficient neighborhoods, such as mid-rise apartments and row houses. They also noted the city's car dependency and the presence of large roads, which hinder walkability. The students emphasized the need for diverse housing options, especially for low-income groups and the elderly. Calgary's ample land availability contributes to the abundance of affordable standalone houses. The city's parking lots were highlighted as an opportunity for redevelopment. An assistant professor from the University of Calgary emphasized the importance of learning from other cities' experiences in urban design. Recently, Calgary's city council approved new zoning regulations to facilitate the construction of more affordable housing types in suitable areas. However, there have been debates and reversals regarding these changes.