Transit Highlights: Big Moves in Niagara, Edmonton, and Calgary (Week of June 16-20)
From long-term planning to boots-on-the-ground construction, Canadian cities are moving forward with bold transit-oriented development initiatives. Here’s a snapshot of what’s happening across the country.
Niagara Transit Commission Approves Ambitious 10-Year Master Plan
The Niagara Transit Commission has approved, in principle, a bold 10-year transit master plan aimed at significantly improving mobility across the region. Described as an “aspirational” investment and growth strategy, the plan was presented by consultant Dennis Fletcher of Left Turn Right Turn Ltd. and is designed to guide long-term transit development in Niagara.
Edmonton Neighbourhood Revitalized Through Transit-Oriented Housing Development
In Edmonton, the Cromdale neighbourhood is undergoing a major transformation through the final phase of Stadium Yards, a three-phase, mixed-use development near the Stadium LRT station. Led by the Rohit Group, the project will bring hundreds of new rental units and retail spaces to the area. The recently completed Lewis Block added 229 apartments and a public art installation honouring Black fur trader Joseph Lewis. While the project aligns with Edmonton’s transit-oriented development goals, it has also raised concerns about housing affordability among long-time residents. The third and final phase is scheduled to begin construction in 2026.
Calgary Explores Housing Developments at Three Red Line LRT Stations
Calgary is preparing to launch public engagement on plans to redevelop three underused Park and Ride lots—Fish Creek-Lacombe, Dalhousie, and Anderson—into transit-oriented housing. With $20 million in funding from City Council, the Calgary Municipal Land Corporation (CMLC) will lead the master planning process. The sites, all along Calgary Transit’s Red Line, offer opportunities to create higher-density communities near transit, while retaining some parking. CMLC’s approach includes partnering with developers to accelerate community-informed, accessible housing delivery.
From strategic planning in Niagara to neighbourhood revitalization in Edmonton and early-stage engagement in Calgary, these initiatives highlight how cities across Canada are embracing transit as a cornerstone of urban development. Transit-oriented communities can deliver more than just mobility, they create vibrant, sustainable spaces where people can live, work, and connect.