Calgary Seeks $16.6M for Green Line LRT Extension Study

The City of Calgary is proposing a study to extend the Green Line LRT project further north and south, with a requested budget of $16.6 million. The study aims to improve project readiness and cost certainty for the potential extensions.

The requested budget will be dedicated to two separate studies: $4.1 million for a southeast extension from the Shepard to Seton areas, and $12.4 million to examine extending the line further north from Eau Claire to 160 Avenue N. The difference in funding is due to a broader scope of work required for the northern leg, which is expected to take two years to complete.

The study on the southeast extension, on the other hand, is estimated to take one year to complete. High-level estimates currently peg the cost for the south extension at $3 billion from Shepard to Seton and $4 billion to build the Green Line from Eau Claire to 40 Avenue N.

Construction on the Green Line is currently underway from Shepard in the city’s northeast to 10 Avenue in the Beltline at a cost of $6.2 billion. The Green Line is expected to be operational by 2031.

## Why it matters The proposed study is crucial in securing funding from the provincial and federal governments for the potential extensions. Having accurate cost estimates will help the city advocate for funding and make informed decisions about the project's future. The study will also help improve project readiness by updating technical information and assumptions, as well as strengthening cost certainty.

The decision on funding for the studies will be made by city council during budget deliberations later this month. If approved, the studies will provide valuable insights into the feasibility and potential costs of extending the Green Line LRT project, which could have a significant impact on the city's transportation infrastructure and development.