Calgary, is a bustling city with a well-developed public transportation system. The city’s public transportation is managed by Calgary Transit, which operates the Light Rail Transit (LRT) system known as the CTrain, as well as a network of bus routes. The CTrain is a light rail system with four lines that serve the city, while the bus system has over 160 routes. For those who prefer a more active mode of transportation, Calgary also has a comprehensive network of bike paths. With these options, an expat living in Calgary could comfortably live without a car, relying on public transportation and walking.
CTrain
The CTrain is Calgary’s primary mode of public transportation. It is a light rail system with four lines: the Red Line, the Blue Line, the Green Line, and the Purple Line. The CTrain operates from early morning until late at night, making it a reliable option for commuters. It is generally safe to use, even at night, and is used by a diverse range of people, including women traveling alone and children going to school. A single adult fare is $3.50, but monthly passes are available for frequent riders. The CTrain covers a large portion of the city, with the Red Line running from the northwest to the south, the Blue Line from the northeast to the west, the Green Line from the north to the southeast, and the Purple Line serving the downtown area.
Bus
Calgary Transit also operates a comprehensive bus system with over 160 routes. The buses serve areas not covered by the CTrain, providing a more flexible option for getting around the city. The bus system is safe and reliable, with buses running from early morning until late at night. The fare is the same as the CTrain, with single adult tickets costing $3.50. Monthly passes are also available. The bus routes cover a wide range of areas, from the city center to the suburbs, making it a convenient option for those living outside the CTrain’s coverage area.
Bike Paths
For those who prefer a more active mode of transportation, Calgary has an extensive network of bike paths. The city has over 900 kilometers of pathways and 400 kilometers of on-street bicycle routes, making it one of the most bike-friendly cities in Canada. The paths are well-maintained and safe, with many of them separated from motorized traffic. They cover a wide range of areas, from the city center to the outskirts, making it possible to get around the city by bike. There are also numerous bike racks and lockers available for those who need to store their bikes while they’re out and about.
Car2Go
For those times when public transportation or biking isn’t an option, Calgary also has a car-sharing service called Car2Go. This service allows you to rent a car for a short period of time, providing a convenient option for those who occasionally need a car but don’t want to own one. The cars can be picked up and dropped off at designated spots throughout the city, and the cost includes fuel, parking, and insurance. This service provides a flexible option for those who need a car for occasional trips or errands.
In conclusion, Calgary’s public transportation system is comprehensive and reliable, making it possible for an expat to live comfortably without a car. Whether you prefer to take the CTrain, bus, bike, or occasionally rent a car, Calgary has a transportation option to suit your needs.
