Alberta cities to get $3.3 billion in transport funding

CALGARY, (Sept. 28, 2004) — Alberta Premier Ralph Klein recently announced Edmonton and Calgary will each receive $1 billion in funding for transportation and infrastructure.

With a provincial election around the corner, Klein referred to the funding as a $3.3-billion “catch-up” program for municipalities that require money for roads and other infrastructure. An official announcement is expected to be made during the provincial election campaign.

It is expected Edmonton and Calgary would each receive $1 billion with the remainder being distributed among other municipalities. Roads, bridges and transit projects would likely be the main benefactors.

Kim Royal, executive director of Alberta Motor Transport Association, noted that the rapid growth in population and the need for improved transportation infrastructure escalates every year. “The gridlock we see during rush hour adds to the frustration of all users of our road systems and decreases the quality of life for our citizens” Royal said in a release. “For commercial transportation it impacts the delivery times for goods to retail establishments and eventually increases the price of goods on the store shelves. Efficient transportation networks will speed delivery and minimize the freight component of the cost of goods.”