Appearing alongside Mayor Nenshi in downtown Calgary, PM Trudeau made local and national headlines with his pledge to follow through with $1.53 billion in federal funds for the construction of the Green Line LRT. Initially promised by PM Harper during the final days of the 2015 election campaign, the Liberal Government's commitment to make good on its predecessor's pledge highlights the primacy of the project over and above political affiliations. Part of a tripart funding arrangement, the $1.53 billion will be matched by commitments already in place from both the Province and the City. 

Green Line LRT, proposed route and stations, image via City of Calgary

To be built in stages, beginning in 2020, the first phase of the Green Line will run north-south across the centre of the city, from Crescent Heights to Shepard, with a projected opening date of 2026. An ambitious project, the Green Line will involve the construction of 14 stations spread along 20 kilometres of track. Running through the heart of the city, and twice across the Bow River, the Green Line will also require the construction of storage and maintenance sheds, eight bridges, four tunnels, and three park-and-ride facilities. Once complete, the Green Line will be served by a fleet of 70 low-floor LRVs. 

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