WATCH ABOVE: As the downtown arena district takes shape, the pressure is on for Greyhound to find a new location for its main Edmonton bus terminal. Kendra Slugoski reports.
EDMONTON — Greyhound has been searching for a new location for its main terminal since it learned the building would be torn down to make way for the new downtown arena district.
The lease on the current station on 103 Avenue and 103 Street is set to expire May 2016, but the city said Greyhound does have the option of extending its lease while it works to acquire a more permanent residence.
READ MORE: Development around the arena district gets going
“2016 is approaching fast and they need to find an appropriate place where they can build a new building,” said Ward 12 Councillor Amarjeet Sohi.
The bus company did propose rezoning land north of Yellowhead Trail near 123 Street and moving the terminal there, but neighbours in the area were concerned about the depot creating traffic congestion and council voted the site down.
READ MORE: Greyhound’s future uncertain in Edmonton
City staff said Tuesday Greyhound is close to finding a new location for the bus terminal, which could cater to traffic between Edmonton and Calgary.
“A location that would serve a customer base is something they would definitely be looking for,” said Sohi.
“But at this time we don’t know the location.”
The city said it will continue its discussions with Greyhound in private, and hopes to make a public announcement in the next few weeks.
City staff also say they are looking at the possibility of creating a main terminal for Greyhound with satellite stations scattered around Edmonton.
The city has yet to receive a development permit application from the bus company.
Comments