Calgary Green Line Construction Moves Forward, Trains Expected by 2031

CALGARY – The future of Calgary’s largest transit expansion took centre stage in the latest episode of the Calgary Conversations podcast, where Green Line Director Wendy Tynan provided an in-depth update on the progress of the long-anticipated LRT project.

Describing it as the most significant infrastructure investment in the city’s history, Tynan said the Green Line represents the largest LRT construction initiative ever undertaken in Calgary. The $6.248-billion project is jointly funded by the municipal government, the Province of Alberta and the federal government.

Ground was officially broken in March last year, marking a major milestone after more than a decade of planning and revisions. The first phase of the line will run from Sheppard in the southeast to the Event Centre/Grand Central Station near downtown.

According to Tynan, construction is currently active at five locations in the southeast quadrant of the city. Additional contracts are expected to be awarded throughout this year, signaling continued momentum on the project.

A 15-Year Journey

The Green Line has been in development for roughly 15 years, evolving through route adjustments, funding agreements and public consultation. Tynan noted that delivering a project of this scale requires coordination across multiple levels of government and careful staging to ensure long-term success.

She also highlighted unique features of the new Green Line vehicles, which are designed to meet Calgary’s growing transit demands while improving rider comfort and operational efficiency.

Downtown Alignment Engagement

One of the key topics discussed in the podcast was the ongoing public engagement process regarding the downtown alignment of the Green Line. City officials are encouraging Calgarians to participate through online surveys, virtual information sessions and in-person public drop-ins.

Tynan emphasized that community input will play a critical role in shaping how the line integrates into the downtown core, ensuring it supports both transit efficiency and urban development.

Long-Term Vision Still Intact

While Phase 1 remains the immediate priority, Tynan said the broader vision for the Green Line remains unchanged. The ultimate goal is a continuous LRT route stretching from Seton in the deep south to 160th Avenue in the north.

She confirmed that the full corridor vision continues to receive support from all three levels of government, even as construction proceeds in stages.

If timelines remain on track, trains are expected to begin operating on the first phase of the Green Line by 2031, marking a transformative milestone for Calgary’s transit network.