Ward 5 has the highest transit ridership in Calgary, making efficient and reliable public transit essential for our residents. As a ward 5 candidate in 2021, I committed to advocating for better transit service, ensuring that it remains affordable, accessible, and responsive to the needs of our growing communities.
Since being elected as your Ward 5 City Councillor, I have been actively working to improve bus routes, increase frequency on high-demand corridors, and extend transit services to new communities like Homestead. Recognizing the vital role transit plays in affordability and mobility, I continue to push for service enhancements that benefit our residents.
One of my top priorities has been the long-overdue Blue Line LRT extension. I have consistently advocated for extending the line to Country Hills to better serve Ward 5 and provide long-term connectivity for residents. Thanks to ongoing efforts, the province has committed $43 million to extend the line to 88 Avenue NE, but the federal government has yet to contribute its share of funding.
I believe it's crucial to promote initiatives that enhance the overall transit experience for our residents. This includes exploring the implementation of real-time tracking technology for buses and trains, allowing passengers to access accurate information about arrival times and service disruptions.
By integrating user-friendly apps and digital signage at transit stops, we can empower commuters with the information they need to plan their journeys effectively. Furthermore, I am committed to ensuring that our transit facilities are safe, well-maintained, and accessible to everyone, including seniors and individuals with disabilities. Enhancing the user experience will not only encourage more residents to utilize public transit but also contribute to a more sustainable and vibrant community in Ward 5.
To ensure the entire project is shovel-ready when funding becomes available, I am pushing to complete the design work for the full extension to Country Hills. This proactive approach will ensure that once all funding is secured, construction can begin immediately—delivering the transit infrastructure that Ward 5 residents deserve.