Calgary,
15
November
2018
|
14:15
America/Denver

Three new MAX transit lines to open for service

CALGARY, AB - The City of Calgary, The Government of Alberta and the Government of Canada are pleased to announce the opening of three new MAX rapid transit bus lines. Service on MAX Orange, MAX Purple and MAX Teal begins on November 19, and will benefit hundreds of thousands of Calgarians living across all quadrants of the city. A fourth MAX route in southwest Calgary is currently under construction and will open for service in 2019.

“MAX is the largest single addition to our city’s rapid transit network to date, and will provide citizens of all ages and backgrounds the freedom to move around the city in an affordable, convenient and accessible way,” said Mayor Naheed Nenshi.

Our investment in Calgary’s MAX transit lines will help improve people’s access not only to essential services, but also to their families, jobs and schools,” said Transportation Minister Brian Mason. “I am proud that we are continuing to ensure Albertans have affordable and environmentally sustainable transportation options.”

The Government of Alberta has committed through the Green Trip Program a total of $116.2 million to the MAX Orange, Purple and Teal rapid transit bus lines. An additional $43.7 million has also been dedicated to the future southwest MAX route. The City of Calgary has also allocated close to $76 million to these projects from the province’s Municipal Sustainability Initiative grant, bringing the Government of Alberta’s investment to a total of $235.9 million. The Federal Government has contributed $42.5M through the Public Transit Investment Fund. The total investment in the MAX rapid transit network is $304 million.

Over 320,000 Calgarians living across 53 communities will have access to this enhanced transit service, allowing them to travel across the city, and easily access key destinations such as post-secondary institutions, employment centres and hospitals.

Service on the new lines will run every 12-18 minutes during peak times. The infrastructure includes queue jumps and dedicated bus only lanes to bypass traffic, providing customers with a consistent and reliable service. MAX stations also offer an enhanced customer experience with larger platforms, heated shelters, improved lighting, wayfinding signs and next bus arrival time displays.

A community grand opening event will be held on Saturday, November 17 from 12-2 p.m. on International Avenue. Calgarians are invited to join Mayor Naheed Nenshi and members of Council, The City of Calgary, and Transit Teddy for family-friendly activities, and hot drinks and treats from around the world. This event will take place on the south side of 17 Ave SE at 32 Street SE.

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