Calgary Transit Introduces Shorter CTrains on Weekends: What You Need to Know

A New Era for Calgary Transit: Shorter CTrains on Weekends

Starting March 22, commuters in Calgary might notice a change in their weekend CTrain rides. Calgary Transit has announced a pilot project to test two-car CTrains during weekend and holiday service, reducing from the current three-car trains. This shift is part of an effort to optimize service and infrastructure according to changing ridership patterns.

According to Aaron Coon, a manager at Calgary Transit, the decision is driven by the desire to "better utilize some of our infrastructure to better support our ridership." The move comes as weekend ridership has seen growth, averaging 84 passengers per trip, with numbers spiking to around 300 during peak times. Despite this growth, these figures remain below the 400-person capacity of two-car trains, suggesting that the reduced size should still meet demand adequately.

Enhanced Flexibility and Efficiency

The introduction of two-car CTrains is not just about reducing costs; it’s also about improving service flexibility. Calgary Transit has emphasized that additional trains will be deployed during periods of higher demand, such as Calgary Flames game nights or major concerts, ensuring that passengers are not left stranded. For large-scale events like the Calgary Stampede and the Rotary International Convention, train lengths will be increased to three or four cars, demonstrating the transit system’s ability to scale according to need.

Reducing the number of train cars on weekends is expected to yield several benefits. Energy consumption is projected to decrease by 33%, maintenance needs will be lower, and the lifespan of CTrain cars will be extended. These efficiencies are part of a broader strategy to deliver sustainable and cost-effective transit solutions.

Positive Reception from City Officials

The initiative has garnered support from several city officials. Ward 10 Coun. Andre Chabot expressed his approval, stating that any measures leading to cost savings and reduced wear and tear on the LRT system are welcomed. Similarly, Ward 3 Coun. Jasmine Mian highlighted the importance of matching service levels to demand, emphasizing that as long as trains are not overcrowded, the change should be acceptable to riders.

Mayor Jyoti Gondek has also voiced her support for achieving operational efficiencies but stressed the importance of maintaining service levels that meet the expectations of Calgarians. She noted that weekends are still a busy time for many, with people relying on transit for work, education, and other essential activities. The city will closely monitor the pilot’s results to ensure it aligns with the needs of the community.

Concerns from Transit Advocates

While the pilot project has been met with optimism by city officials, it has also sparked concerns among transit advocates. The group Calgary Transit Riders has expressed worries that the two-car CTrain pilot could further deter people from using transit on weekends, especially during peak hours. They argue that the reduced capacity might discourage riders who already feel that weekend service frequency is insufficient. However, Calgary Transit has assured the public that signage and a public awareness campaign will be implemented to inform riders about the changes, including the need to move further down the platform as shorter trains will stop at the end of stations.

A Trial with Potential for Expansion

The pilot project is set to be fully evaluated in the fall, and if successful, Calgary Transit may consider expanding two-car operations to non-peak hours on weekdays. This approach aligns with the city’s commitment to adapt and evolve its transit system to meet the changing needs of its residents.

In summary, the introduction of two-car CTrains on weekends is a step toward creating a more efficient and responsive transit system. While there are valid concerns about the potential impact on riders, the pilot offers a valuable opportunity to test new strategies and gather data to inform future decisions. As Calgary continues to grow and evolve, so too must its transit system, ensuring that it remains a reliable and sustainable option for all users.