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I would like to acknowledge we are on the traditional territory of the signatories of Treaty Seven.
And I also acknowledge the Metis people of Alberta, who share a deep connection with this land.
It’s great to be with Mayor Nenshi...
And my Finance Minister, Joe Ceci…
This is a big day for Calgary.
Today, I’m pleased to announce that an historic agreement between the province and the city has been signed.
This agreement locks in 3 billion dollars, with equal parts from the provincial government and the federal government, allowing Stage 1 of the Green Line LRT to officially move ahead.
What does that mean for Calgary?
It means one of North America’s great cities…
…an economic engine for Alberta and for the country…
…will have the kind of transit system that befits a city of this size and economic importance.
The Green Line is the biggest transit project in Calgary’s history.
It will transform the way Calgarians move around the city.
It will generate enormous social and economic benefits for generations to come.
And it is made possible by the leadership of Mayor Neshi, the support of the federal government, and Alberta’s commitment to climate leadership.
Because of the Climate Leadership Plan the province of Alberta is able to invest $1.53 billion in this project.
…an investment that makes sense.
For the neighbourhoods it will connect.
From 16th Avenue in the north to Shepard in the southeast.
For the 60,000 Calgarians who will use the new line.
For the 30,000 tons of greenhouse gas emissions it will eliminate every year.
For the 20,000 jobs it will create and support.
And for the future development it will encourage all along this corridor.
It’s good for the economy.
Good for the community.
Good for the environment.
And good for everyone in Calgary.
Because great cities have great transit systems…
…and the foresight to build them,
Again, I want to thank Mayor Nenshi and our municipal partners for all of their hard work and vision.
I can’t wait for construction on this site to ramp up.
Thank you.