WINNIPEG - April 16, 2010 - Committed to ensuring that Winnipeggers have the best option of rapid transit for the development of our City’s future, Mayor Sam Katz will present a motion to Executive Policy Committee (EPC) to direct the administration to explore the option of light rail transit.

As a first step in the development of a long term strategy for a rapid transit system in Winnipeg, all levels of government have committed to funding stage 1 of the Southwest Rapid Transit Corridor from downtown to Jubilee Avenue.

“I remain committed to working towards building a rapid transit system in the City of Winnipeg,” said Mayor Sam Katz. “But we need to ensure that what we build makes sense for the long term development of our City and provides Winnipeggers the neccessary incentives to leave there car at home and embrace public transportation alternatives, and provides solutions for financing with all our funding partners.”

The expansion of rapid transit facilites in Winnipeg has the potential to increase transit ridership, reduce reliance on automobiles, and achieve significant greenhouse gas emission reductions. A potential stimulus for future development in terms of density and infill neighbourhoods could also increase along rapid transit corridors with the long term construction of light rail transit.

“Winnipeg is experiencing an unprecedented level of growth, confidence, and commitment. We’ve recently been cited as one of the best cities to do business and Winnipeggers should celebrate the accomplishments we’ve made, especially during a global recession,” said Katz. “With all of the major projects underway here in the heart of the continent, we need to be sure we are thinking big picture and making decisions that look 20 years into the future, not 20 years in the past.”

The motion will be presented for consideration to members of executive policy committee on Wednesday, April 21st.