Funding priority considered for Edmonton Capital Line South light-rail extension

Priority funding consideration is being made for the first phase of Canada's Edmonton Capital Line South Extension project, which will provide the rapidly growing city of Edmonton southwest access to a light-rail transit (LRT) line.

The extension calls for adding 3 miles of double track and building two new permanent LRT stations, an underpass and a bridge.

The project also includes an operations, maintenance and storage facility, the purchase of 24 electric light-rail vehicles, and the expansion and integration of the Heritage Valley park and ride facility.

The Canadian government will provide up to CA$394 million for the project, subject to the federal due diligence and approvals process. The government of Alberta and city of Edmonton will cover the remaining costs.

"Investing in public transit is at the heart of a clean and inclusive recovery. That's why the government of Canada is investing almost CA$400 million in the [project] ... to reduce commute times and help Edmonton residents," said Canada Minister of Infrastructure Catherine McKenna in a news release. "Through this investment, we're helping to take more cars off the road and reduce emissions, create good jobs and build more inclusive communities."