A Better Transit System
Investing in public transit drives Calgary's economy A Better Transit System
Investing in public transit strengthens economic competitiveness, expands housing opportunity, and delivers city-wide social benefits — making it a foundational investment in Calgary's future prosperity and quality of life.
Investing in Calgary’s fast and frequent transit network
- Supports a more vibrant & safer downtown.
- Increases participation & contribution to Calgary's economy.
- Learn how transit supports Calgary's broader economic goals in Uplook: An Action Plan for Calgary's Economy
- Attracts more types of housing closer to existing & future public transit.
- Reduces congestion and lessens the expense of owning a vehicle.
- Connects people to schools, neighbourhoods & public services.
- Supports thriving communities.
- Improves access to jobs & services.
Closing the funding gap
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Funding to operate
$20 million dollars per year, until 2034, keeps Calgary moving.
This investment delivers fast and frequent transit to 50 per cent of residents and 65 per cent of jobs. It supports access, equity, safety and reliability city-wide as Calgary grows to 2 million people.
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Funding to build
New bus rapid transit (BRT) lines, CTrain extensions, the airport connector, and additional buses ensure Calgary’s transit system expands to meet the travel needs of a growing population, connecting people and communities to work, school, appointments, and activities.
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Funding to maintain
Two new maintenance and storage facilities plus $230 million per year for 10 years keeps Calgary Transit’s fleet and infrastructure in a state of good repair to provide reliable service.
Funding capital
Funding capital
Blue Line LRT extension and airport connector: $1.775 billion
New bus purchases: $600 million
New maintenance and storage facility (x2): $1.365 billion
MAX BRT package (Purple, 52 Street, Teal, Green): $796 million
Maintenance & repairs: $230 million/yr for 10 years
*Costs are subject to change
A better Calgary needs a better transit system
Calgary's population has surged by 130,000+ people since 2024, yet no new buses or trains have been added to meet this growth.
Despite being Canada's third largest city, Calgary is served by a limited public transit system. It is one that is increasingly strained as more people need to rely on it every day.
Transit operates fast & frequent service on its two LRT lines: trains every 10 minutes. for at least 15 hours daily.
No bus routes meet this level of service.
Only 10% of Calgarians live within walking distance of fast and frequent transit.
Only 30% of jobs are within walking distance of fast and frequent transit.
For questions about Calgary Transit advocacy and funding priorities, contact Jennifer.Burgess@calgary.ca