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5mo ago

Calgary Committee Backs Ending Downtown CTrain Free-Fare Zone

The recommendation sends a $4 fare plan to city council as a test of safety-first transit policy.

Fare zones and distance-based ticketing are being considered as Calgary Transit looks to modernize its payment system, Calgary city council heard on Thursday, May 7, 2026. Passengers are seen here at City Hall/Bow Valley College station on Feb. 24.
Payment for transit fares has shifted toward cards and apps, with a small proportion of fares paid with cash, Calgary Transit director Sharon Fleming said.
Calgary Transit officials are recommending a regular fare of $4 for the downtown segment, which is expected to generate an additional $5 million per year. 
The downtown Calgary Hyatt Regency hotel. Downtown businesses and in turn the Calgary economy benefit from people having free use of the CTrain said

Overview

  • The city's Infrastructure and Planning Committee voted 7–4 to endorse eliminating the downtown free segment of the CTrain light-rail.
  • City administration proposed replacing free rides with the regular $4 fare that Calgary Transit estimates could raise about $5 million a year.
  • Officials said ending the zone would let transit peace officers remove disruptive riders and act sooner on loitering.
  • Dozens of speakers urged council to keep free rides, and business leaders warned the change would push vulnerable people into nearby streets and shops.
  • If council approves, the city targets an Aug. 1 start date for the change, which mirrors moves already taken in Portland, Seattle, Kansas City and Grand Rapids.
  • Calgary’s free-fare stretch dates to a 1981 pilot and runs about 2.5 km between Downtown West/Kerby and City Hall/Bow Valley College stations.