The Calgary Green Line LRT project, a major transit initiative aimed at enhancing connectivity within the city, has received renewed approval from the city council, paving the way for construction to potentially commence later this year. This decision marks a significant step forward after a period of uncertainty and revisions, particularly regarding the contentious downtown alignment. The approved plan focuses on the southeast segment, spanning from Shepard to Victoria Park, while committing to a two-year functional study of the downtown route. This study aims to address crucial aspects such as property impacts, safety considerations, cost validation, and design refinement. The province’s ultimatum to withdraw its substantial funding of $1.53 billion if the city didn’t amend the downtown alignment from a tunnel to an elevated track loomed large over the decision-making process.
The provincial government has expressed satisfaction with the council’s decision, signaling its commitment to the project’s advancement. Premier Danielle Smith welcomed the decision, emphasizing the importance of commencing construction and continuing collaboration on expanding the alignment. This positive response from the province contrasts sharply with the apprehension expressed by Calgary’s mayor, Jyoti Gondek, who voiced concerns about potential cost overruns and the city’s sole responsibility for legal liabilities, given the province’s unwillingness to allocate additional funding. Gondek’s characterization of the province as “overlords” of the Green Line underscores the tension surrounding the project’s funding and control. This dynamic of collaboration and contention between the city and the province will likely continue to shape the project’s trajectory.
The Green Line, a $6.2 billion megaproject, involves a complex funding structure with Calgary contributing the largest share at 46%, followed by the federal government at 27%, and the provincial government at 26%. Despite the provincial government’s endorsement, the city administration has identified an additional $1.2 billion in costs and risks not considered in the province’s assessments. This discrepancy further complicates the financial landscape of the project, highlighting the potential for future disputes and negotiations between the different levels of government. While the province hails the project as a win for Calgary, Alberta, and the future of public transit, the city’s financial concerns remain a significant challenge. Balancing the project’s ambitious goals with fiscal responsibility will be a crucial task moving forward.
The chosen downtown alignment, which will undergo the two-year functional study, involves an elevated track above 10th Avenue S.E., turning north up 2nd Street S.W., and terminating at 7th Avenue S.W. This proposed route has elicited concerns from local businesses, particularly those situated along 10th Avenue S.E., who fear the impact on their operations and property values. Business owners like John Batas, who runs Michael’s Pizza on 10th Avenue, express frustration at the lack of consultation and the perceived arbitrary nature of the province’s decision. Their anxieties reflect broader concerns about the potential disruption and negative consequences for businesses located along the elevated track. Addressing these concerns and mitigating potential negative impacts will be essential for maintaining public support for the project.
The decision to proceed with the Green Line has also faced opposition from a coalition of downtown property owners and construction industry representatives. These groups have expressed concerns about the impact of the elevated track on property values and the overall business environment in the downtown core. While disappointed with the council’s decision, they remain hopeful that the functional study might provide an opportunity to explore alternative alignments. Their advocacy for a more thorough evaluation of different options underscores the importance of considering the long-term consequences of the chosen route. Balancing the benefits of enhanced transit connectivity with the potential drawbacks for businesses and property owners remains a central challenge.
Meanwhile, in the Ogden and Lynwood communities along the southeast segment, anticipation is building for the potential start of construction later this year. Preliminary work, including preparations for tracks and future stations, has already commenced in these areas. While residents generally support the Green Line and its potential to improve access to various destinations, concerns linger about the project’s delays and escalating costs. These concerns highlight the importance of transparent communication and effective management to maintain public confidence and ensure the project’s successful completion. The city administration is now tasked with submitting an updated business case to the provincial and federal governments by February 14, marking the next crucial step in the Green Line’s complex journey.
