The City of Winnipeg unveiled its new master transportation plan on Friday.
Among the items listed are goals for four rapid transit corridors in the city by 2031, including the current one under construction from The Forks to Jubilee Avenue.
Mayor Sam Katz wants to convert that one to light rail, along with its second phase from Jubilee to the University of Manitoba.
The transportation plan said that will cost about $700 million, almost $300 million more than bus rapid transit.
"The southwest corridor is ideal for light rail because of the demand that's out there and how often it's used. It's a major route," said Katz.
Rapid transit advocates say that because bus rapid transit is cheaper, it can be implemented faster.
Critics also believe the overall transportation plan is unrealistic.
"This is all a nice plan, but how are we going to pay for it?" asked Coun. John Orlikow (River Heights - Fort Garry).
The transportation plan currently doesn't mention how the city will cover the costs for implementation of the initiatives.
Mayor Katz said things would be accomplished and said you never know when the federal government is going to offer up new money.
In addition to the four rapid transit corridors by 2031, the plan also calls for two more ones after that year.
The plan also includes upgrades to major routes such as Kenaston and Bishop Grandin boulevards, along with future extensions of Chief Peguis Trail and William Clement Parkway, along with more bike paths.
An open house on the transportation plan is slated to be held on Nov. 2 in the Carol Shields Auditorium, Millennium Library, 251 Donald St., in Winnipeg. People can drop in any time between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.
The transportation plan will likely end up before city council for a vote next month.
- with a report from CTV's Jeff Keele
- to view the full transportation plan, please go to the City of Winnipeg's website
