WATCH ABOVE: Calgary is getting new support for public transit in the biggest single federal infrastructure investment in the city’s history. As Jenna Freeman reports, it’s an announcement the will drastically change the size and scope of the LRT network.
CALGARY – The federal government is contributing $1.53 billion towards the city’s Green Line transit project.
The money will help extend Calgary’s CTrain network, adding 27 news stations (including three in the downtown core).
The Green Line will wind 50 kilometers from North Pointe to Seton, doubling the size of the existing LRT network and carrying an estimated 41 million passengers annually.
“Calgary’s Green Line will provide relief for overcrowded transit corridors, connect Calgarians to each other and further facilitate commercial flows through the City,” said. Michelle Rempel, Minister of State (Western Economic Diversification).
Scroll down to see a map of the new Green Line
The government’s contribution to the project is part of their new Public Transit Fund, and was announced by Minister Jason Kenney in Calgary on Friday.
“The Public Transit Fund will promote public transit infrastructure investment in a manner that is affordable for taxpayers and efficient for commuters,” said Kenney.
Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi has been lobbying for the project for a long time, and says investments in public transit are amongst the very best investments any government can make.
“They are investments in quality of life, in mobility, in social inclusion, and in the environment,” said Nenshi.
He says construction could start in 2017, with a completion date sometime in 2024.
BELOW: A map of the Green Line SE Transitway
– With files from Jenna Freeman
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