Stage 1 of the Calgary Green Line Light-Rail Transit (LRT) project will begin construction this fall and the province of Alberta has approved the full project’s business case. Both pieces of news were discussed during a press conference held at the Calgary Transit Oliver Bowen Maintenance Facility on July 7.
Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau visited the city to reiterate the government of Canada’s commitment to providing C$1.53 billion (US$1.22 billion) toward the project and stating the federal government’s intention to continue to work with the city on the second phase of the project.
“By investing in smart public transit projects, we’re reducing gridlock, helping more Calgarians get to and from work, creating good middle-class jobs, growing the economy and fighting climate change. As we set the course for an inclusive recovery from COVID‑19, we will keep focusing on laying the foundations for long-term, sustainable growth to create a Canada that is cleaner, more competitive and more resilient for generations to come,” said Prime Minister Trudeau.
He noted the project’s estimated to create 28,000 jobs during construction and another 400 positions once the line is in operation but recognized the project as an investment in the community, as well.
“What does this mean to you? It means a faster, cheaper commute. No one wants to waste time and money idling in traffic. This will get you home to the kids sooner instead of stuck in traffic. Of course, investing in a major project like this also means investing in workers,” said Prime Minister Trudeau.
Shortly before the Prime Minister and Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi started their press conference, the province issued a release stating it had approved the revised business case for the Calgary Green Line LRT. The revised business case now moves to the federal government for approval.
“Alberta’s C$1.53-billion (US$1.22-billion) commitment toward the Green Line is a massive investment in the future of Calgary, one we are happy to make because we believe our best days are ahead of us. I'm grateful for the hard work done by the technical experts at the province and the city to make the Green Line a functional project that connects to the rest of the LRT network. I am confident that the Green Line is in a stronger, more certain position today and is in the capable hands of an experienced project team that can take this important project forward,” said Alberta Minister of Transportation and Minister of Municipal Affairs Ric McIver.
The 20-km (12.4-mile) project will be constructed in two phases with the first connecting 18 kms (11.18 miles) between Shepard to Eau Clare. The second phase will construct the final two kilometers (1.24 miles) from Eau Clare to 16 Avenue North.
In addition to the federal government’s financial commitment, the province committed to matching the federal investment in the project and the city of Calgary has committed C$1.59 billion (US$1.27 billion) for the project.
