The City of Edmonton has announced phase one of its Metro Line Northwest LRT extension is complete on budget and more than a year ahead of schedule with the opening of the NAIT/Blatchford Market LRT station on Jan. 20.

Phase one construction was originally anticipated to be complete in 2025 but was completed in December 2023.

“Completing Phase 1 of the Metro Line Northwest LRT extension ahead of schedule is a significant infrastructure milestone to serve our growing needs. This extension further strengthens our LRT network and provides the north side of Edmonton with greater access to transit service,” said Edmonton Mayor Amarjeet Sohi.

The new station is approximately 300 metres west of the temporary NAIT station and has a longer platform to accommodate ridership growth. Additional service capacity provides the option of using up to five-car trains on the Metro Line. Salvaging of materials and other demolition activities will commence at the temporary NAIT station in the coming weeks.

Design features include fewer barriers and improved access to LRT infrastructure including a shared-use path which runs along the full length of the extension and connects to shared-use paths at 118 Avenue and 123 Avenue. The station is also equipped with solar panels to supply up to two-thirds of the station’s electrical needs, the release said.

The total budget for Metro Line Phase 1 is approximately $291 million with construction funded by the Government of Canada, through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program ($103 million), the Alberta government ($107 million) and City of Edmonton ($58 million).