Province re-announces GreenTRIP funding

Premier Alison Redford and several of her ministers re-announced $2.8 million in GreenTRIP funding, which will be used for buses and improvements previously made to the bus garage and maintenance facility, Jan. 25.

“This is a terrific example of how a community such as Airdrie is looking at transit projects that respond to their local needs,” said Redford.

Deputy Premier Doug Horner made the announcement at Woodside Golf Course in front of members of the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce.

Airdrie’s transit system provides both local service within the city as well as commuter service to Calgary, through its Intercity Express, also known as ICE.

“It is important to make the daily lives of Airdrie residents that much safer,” said Horner.

“It is about our commitment to building a better community, a better Alberta. I congratulate Airdrie on your forward-thinking as you plan, develop and grow. You are one of the most important communities in Alberta and we recognize that, too.”

Ministers Ted Morton and Jack Hayden also attended the event.

Chris MacIsaac, Airdrie Transit coordinator, said the ministers coming through on the money promised to the City shows the Province’s commitment to public transit.

“This covers all capital costs to set up the regional service and enhancements to the local service,” he said.

“This announcement shows they are continuing to look at GreenTRIP funding and that is good news for transit planners. It means we can start to look at long-term needs in the services.”

Alderman Fred Burley and Deputy Mayor Kelly Hegg said the re-announcement of GreenTRIP funds is confirmation that the money the City spent from reserves will be covered.

“It’s money that has been put to good use and allowed us to purchase our buses,” said Hegg.

“We are looking to the future meeting the transportation needs of the people of the Airdrie and Calgary regions.”

Hegg said a new transit customer advisory group made up of transit users and critics will help council know what direction to take.

GreenTRIP is a $2-billion program that provides one-time capital funding to support new and expanded public transit throughout Alberta.

Applicants provide at least one-third of eligible project costs, while GreenTRIP provides up to two-thirds of the costs.

“Our regional transit service continues to evolve,” said Peter Brown, Mayor of Airdrie.

“It hopefully provides good transportation choices for those who work in Calgary. Our local transit system continues to be a work in progress.”

Over its duration, GreenTRIP will provide up to $800 million for Calgary region projects.

Funding for Airdrie’s projects is part of the Calgary region allocation.