Calgary makes recommendation for Stage 1 of Green Line LRT

Written by Mischa Wanek-Libman, editor
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A rendering of Calgary’s planned Green Line LRT project.
City of Calgary

The city of Calgary Administration released its recommendation for construction of Stage 1 of the Green Line Light Rail Project on May 11.

The first stage, estimated to cost CA$4.65 billion (US$3.39 billion), will be the longest LRT line the city has constructed in a single go. The recommendation includes building the 20-km (12.4-mile), 14-station core of the line from 16 Avenue N to 126 Avenue S.E. The line is slated to open in 2026 with planned extensions to be added once funding is secured.

“Building the core of the Green Line LRT is essential to supporting Calgary’s growth,” said Mac Logan, general manager of Transportation for the city of Calgary. “We have a unique opportunity now to apply for a significant amount of funding. In building the most technically complex piece of the project first, we will be well positioned to expand the line in affordable, incremental pieces as more funding becomes available.”

Construction is anticipated to begin in 2020. A formal construction schedule will be developed once funding commitments from all three levels of government are in place, but stakeholders note that the provincial and federal governments have demonstrated their support.

“This staging recommendation is the right approach for Calgary, today and in the long-term,” said Logan. “Stage 1 is ready for construction, demand for the line will only continue to grow and with the economic down-turn, this is the right time to invest in jobs and make this project a reality.”

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