The Green Line project, Calgary’s major transit initiative, has been officially cancelled. This decision comes despite the city already spending $1.2 billion of taxpayers’ money on the project.
The cancellation is expected to cause significant challenges for Calgarians, including longer commutes, more traffic, and worsening housing and transportation issues.
What Was the Green Line?
Originally, the Green Line was set to be a 46-kilometer light rail transit system with 29 stations. It was designed to help ease Calgary’s growing traffic and housing issues, with a budget of $4.6 billion.
However, as time went on, the scope of the project was reduced to only 10 kilometers with 7 stations, and costs ballooned to $6.2 billion. Despite these changes, the project was seen as essential for Calgary’s future.
Why Was It Cancelled?
The cancellation has put thousands of local jobs at risk and could result in the loss of hundreds of millions of dollars already invested in the project. The provincial government, led by Minister Dreeshen and the United Conservative Party (UCP), argued that the cost was too high and that the money could be better spent elsewhere. However, many believe that the decision was politically motivated, aiming to gather support from the UCP’s base.
What's Next for Calgary?
Calgary is experiencing rapid population growth, with an estimated 96,000 new residents arriving each year. Without the Green Line, the city will likely face more severe transportation problems and an ongoing housing crisis.
The provincial government has suggested other infrastructure improvements, such as new lanes and intersections on Deerfoot Trail, but these are not expected to fully address Calgary’s needs.
