With a budget of $5.5 billion funded by The City of Calgary, the Province of Alberta, and the Government of Canada, the Green Line will provide access to 190,000 jobs across downtown, Quarry Park, and southeast industrial zones.
Phase 1 will include 13 stations and will seamlessly integrate with Calgary Transit’s existing Red and Blue LRT lines, as well as three MAX rapid transit routes.
• 7 ground-level stations in the S.E.
• 4 underground stations in the Beltline and downtown
• 2 elevated stations at Ramsay/Inglewood and 26 Avenue S.E.
Phase 1 Completion Date: 2027
Construction of the tracks, stations, and tunnels is set to begin this year, with an expected completion date of 6 years. Preliminary groundwork has already been underway in areas such as downtown, the Beltline, and Ogden.
Transit-Oriented Development (TOD)
Transit-oriented development (TOD) refers to the strategic planning, architecture, and construction of developments centered around rapid transit stations. Stations and infrastructure have been carefully designed to create a cohesive, user-friendly urban landscape around these new trains.
Green Line Will Build Vibrant Communities
A significant advantage of the Green Line LRT is establishing efficient transit links between neighbourhoods and areas designated for growth in southeast Calgary. The Green Line LRT project can act as a catalyst for increased development by either amplifying the overall scale of development or hastening new projects along its path.
Nearby rapid transit stations often feature conveniences such as eateries, stores, workspaces, green spaces, and entertainment venues within walking distance. This enriches the overall living experience by offering easy access to destinations, local establishments, and communal areas between platforms for social interactions.
Key Communities & Development Potential
Several communities along the Green Line are slated for significant development, thanks to the TOD approach. Some of the key areas include:
Ramsay/Inglewood: Known for their historical charm and vibrant arts scene, these neighbourhoods will benefit from enhanced connectivity and new mixed-use developments.
26 Avenue SE: Another potential development hotspot, this area will attract investments and new residents due to its strategic location and improved transit access.
Shepard Station
Shepard: This area, designated for growth, will see new residential and commercial projects, making it an attractive destination for families and businesses.
Ogden Station
Douglas Glen, Quarry Park, and South Hill
Douglas Glen, Quarry Park, and South Hill: These prospective sites are identified for their high potential for TOD, promising new amenities and housing options that will improve quality of life.
A Key Role in Calgary's Economic Recovery
The introduction of the Green Line LRT brings numerous advantages to Calgary’s communities:
Reduced Living Expenses
With improved transit options, residents can save on transportation and parking costs, reducing the overall cost of living.
Increased Mobility and Lifestyle Alternatives
The LRT promotes a shift from car reliance to public transit, walking, and cycling, offering more lifestyle choices, without sacrificing travel time.
Healthy, Vibrant Neighborhoods
The presence of green spaces, entertainment venues, and local businesses within walking distance fosters a sense of community and encourages healthy living.
Boost in Local Economic Vitality
The influx of new businesses and residents will stimulate the local economy, creating jobs and supporting small businesses.
New Underground Stations in Calgary
The upcoming Green Line project will introduce four subway stations located in Downtown and the Beltline areas, 30 meters below ground.
Eau Claire Station
Eau Claire Station, situated at the northern end of the Green Line, will function as the final stop until a forthcoming north LRT extension is built. It will feature an underground platform and a link to the Bow River Pathway. Riverfront Avenue will be prolonged towards the west to facilitate entry to future projects. This will be one of four underground stations in Downtown Calgary.
Art installations will adorn the North and South station entrances. The northern plaza will boast attractive landscaping and comfortable seating areas with stunning panoramic views of the Bow River.
7 Avenue S.W. Station
The 7 Avenue SW Station will be entirely underground, which minimizes its footprint and allows it to integrate seamlessly into the urban landscape.
2nd Street will be transformed into a pedestrian-oriented area. This change enhances walkability and creates a more enjoyable environment for residents and visitors.
Centre Street S. Station
Centre Street S. Station will be underground in Calgary’s business district. This design ensures a minimal footprint and improved pedestrian flow.
Surrounded by a vibrant mix of hotels, offices, commercial, and residential buildings, Centre Street S. Station offers unparalleled convenience for professionals, residents, and visitors. The revamped location will include more residential and mixed-use buildings; encouraging further development within the Beltline.
4 Street S.E. Station
Strategically located in the heart of Calgary’s Rivers District. This modern design allows for future development above the station, ensuring long-term urban growth and flexibility.
The entrance plaza is designed to handle large crowds on event days, providing clear site lines at entry and exit points to help passengers navigate the station efficiently.
The 4 Street S.E. Station will be a transformative addition to Calgary’s Rivers District, enhancing connectivity, supporting future developments, and stimulating significant redevelopment. Its prime location and proximity to key amenities make it a highly desirable area for living and investing in Calgary’s growing real estate market.
New Elevated Stations in Calgary
Elevated stations are a key feature of the Green Line project. These stations provide enhanced connectivity and accessibility, making the neighborhoods they serve more attractive to potential residents and investors.
Ramsay/Inglewood Station
This station will enhance connectivity between the two neighborhoods, making it easier for residents to access amenities and transit options. The improved accessibility can lead to increased property values in both communities, as the area becomes more desirable for homebuyers looking for convenient transit access.
26 Avenue S.E. Station
Situated on the embankment west of Crossroads Market, north of Blackfoot Trail.
Similar to the Ramsay/Inglewood Station, this elevated station will improve access to local businesses and amenities, likely boosting the attractiveness of nearby properties. Enhanced connectivity can lead to higher demand for housing in the area, driving up home prices.
Green Line Elevated Guideways
• 11 Street S.E. between 18 and 26 Avenues S.E.
• Barlow Trail near 114 Avenue S.E.
Green Line Bridges
Elbow River Bridge
Connecting Victoria Park and Ramsay, this bridge enhances pedestrian connections with multi-use pathways and improved safety features. The added convenience and safety can increase property values in the connected neighbourhoods.
Blackfoot Trail Bridge
Spanning the roadway behind Crossroads Market, this bridge will house both the LRT line and a multi-use pathway, improving access and connectivity for residents.
Deerfoot Trail and Bow River Bridges
These bridges in the Highfield area provide multi-use pathways alongside the LRT line, enhancing connectivity and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists.
78 Avenue S.E. Bridge
Located south of Ogden Station, this bridge will enhance traffic flow and connectivity in the industrial sector, supporting local businesses and potentially increasing the demand for residential properties nearby.
Impact on Home Prices
The Green Line is expected to have a positive impact on home prices in the communities it serves. Historically, properties located near rapid transit stations tend to appreciate faster than those farther away. The increased convenience and amenities associated with TOD make these areas more desirable for homebuyers and investors.
As the Green Line progresses, neighborhoods along its route will likely see a surge in demand for housing, driving up property values. This trend benefits current homeowners by increasing their equity, while also attracting new residents who value the improved quality of life and accessibility.
Buying A Home in Calgary
For potential homebuyers, the Green Line opens up a range of exciting possibilities. Areas with TOD are becoming highly sought-after due to their enhanced amenities, connectivity, and lifestyle benefits. Buyers looking for homes in these communities can expect:
Long-Term Investment
Properties near the Green Line are likely to appreciate in value over time, offering a solid return on investment.
Convenience and Accessibility
Proximity to rapid transit means easier commutes and access to a variety of services and entertainment options.
Diverse Housing Options
With new developments on the rise, buyers can choose from a variety of housing styles and price ranges to suit their needs.
Selling a Home in Calgary
For homeowners looking to sell, the Green Line can significantly boost property attractiveness and marketability. Sellers can highlight:
Increased Property Values
As demand for homes near transit-oriented developments rises, property values are expected to climb, potentially leading to higher sale prices.
Desirable Location:
The proximity to transit, amenities, and vibrant community life makes properties near the Green Line highly desirable.
Market Trends:
Leverage the ongoing development and future growth prospects to attract buyers interested in the long-term potential of the area.
Building For The Growth Of Calgary
The Green Line LRT project is more than just a transportation initiative; it is a catalyst for urban transformation in Calgary. By fostering Transit-Oriented Development, the Green Line will create dynamic, sustainable communities that offer a higher quality of life and enhanced economic opportunities.
As these communities grow and thrive, home prices are expected to rise, benefiting both current and future residents. For those looking to buy or sell a home, the Green Line represents a significant step forward in Calgary’s evolution into a more connected, vibrant, and prosperous city, presenting substantial real estate opportunities.
Infrastructure Around Green Line
The Green Line will feature a modern fleet of 288-passenger low-floor train cars, designed to enhance accessibility and ensure that stations blend seamlessly with their surrounding communities. The trains were the initial design focus, with the remainder of the system being constructed to accommodate these trains.
Convenience: Vehicle congestion on major roadways will be reduced up to 10%.
Frequency: Wait and travel times will be reduced up to 25 minutes.
Speed: The Green Line will run every 10 minutes, 15 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Green Line Construction Timeline
Demolition of Grandell Office Building, Tony’s Auto and Harvard Manor: Completion date: June 2024
Eau Claire Market: Start date: July 2024
Demolition for Art Point, Mustard Seed and Green Leaf: Start date: July 2024
Ogden Dale Road Extension to 78 Avenue (not including tunnel): Completion date: August 2024
78 Avenue improvements (Ogden to 27 Street S.E.): Completion date: September 2024
Maintenance and storage facility stripping, grading and site servicing: Start date: September 2024
Demolition for Art Point, Mustard Seed and Green Leaf: Completion date: September 2024
78 Avenue structure complete (not including embankment removal): Completion date: Oct./Nov. 2024
Ogden pedestrian tunnel: Completion date (but not open): Nov./Dec. 2024
Green Line Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Advance work is already happening in downtown, Beltline, and Ogden. Major construction for stations, tracks, and tunnels will begin in Fall 2024.
No specific date yet. Major construction for Phase 1 starts in Fall 2024 and will take about six years.
Phase 1 is Calgary’s largest infrastructure project, involving stations, tracks, a downtown tunnel, several bridges, elevated guideways, a maintenance facility, and Park and Ride areas.
The exact schedule and plans will be finalized during the Development Phase and confirmed once the Project Agreement is signed in 2024.
The Green Line has a Business Support Program to inform and prepare businesses for construction impacts. This includes direct communication, safe access, support initiatives, promoting local businesses on social media, and regular meetings with a Business Insights Panel.
Bow Transit Connectors (BTC) is the development partner, chosen in May 2023. BTC will handle design and negotiate project costs, schedule, and risk before the Project Agreement is signed in 2024. Local contractors, suppliers, and trades will support the project. PCL Construction, third-party utilities, and Graham Construction are doing early works.
No timeline for Phase 2 yet. The focus is on completing Phase 1 from Shepard to Eau Claire, managing costs and risks.
Future extensions depend on transit demand, other priorities, and available funding. City Council will decide.
An LRT bridge over the Bow River, connecting Eau Claire station to Crescent Heights, was approved in 2020. This is not part of Phase 1.
Phase 1 won’t connect to the airport, but there are plans for an Airport Transit Connector to link the Green Line and Blue Line to the airport. A study was announced in July 2023 to identify the best rail connection from downtown to the airport.
The Alberta government’s Passenger Rail Master Plan requires a strong intermodal transit network in Calgary, and the Green Line team is exploring ways to support this vision.
The Green Line LRT is anticipated to increase property values along its route due to improved accessibility and transit options. Areas near new stations are likely to see the most significant appreciation as they become more attractive for residential and commercial developments.
Currently, there is strong demand for single-family homes, townhouses, and condos, particularly those in walkable neighborhoods with good access to public transportation. Properties with modern amenities and sustainable features are also highly sought after.
Over the past year, Calgary’s real estate market has experienced a steady increase in prices and sales volume, driven by low interest rates, economic recovery, and population growth. There has been a notable shift towards suburban areas as remote work becomes more common.
First-time homebuyers in Calgary should consider their budget, the current market conditions, and potential future developments like the Green Line LRT. It’s important to get pre-approved for a mortgage, research different neighborhoods, and work with a knowledgeable real estate agent to navigate the buying process.
