Long-awaited transit projects for the Calgary area are on the horizon after the province announced $800 million for the city’s transportation services.
Transportation Minister Luke Ouellette announced yesterday in Edmonton the breakdown of the province’s $2-billion “Green Trip” program, which includes another $800 million for Edmonton.
Mayor Dave Bronconnier is excited about the news.
“There’s no question that’s a lot of money, but when you’re talking infrastructure it gets eaten up quickly. It definitely sets the wheels in motion for a more sustainable city,” Bronconnier said.
He added the money will go towards new buses, new BRT routes, land acquisition and extending the C-Train line to the south.
“This is part of our long-term objective of getting people out of their cars to reduce congestion and emissions, so this is really good for both transit users and motorists,” Bronconnier said.
The funding will also go towards the Calgary Regional Partnership, a $153-million, three-year proposal to link Airdrie, Cochrane, Chestermere and others by transit.
The early proposal also includes 15 new light-rail vehicles and 100 extended buses for Calgary to manage the city’s growth and transport out-of-town passengers.
