It has been quite a ride for some of those affected by the construction of the Southwest Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), so the project's impending completion comes as good news for more than just riders.

Southwest BRT will offer residents more options and make communities more accessible

While too many choices can be overwhelming, options are generally a good thing.

That's the rationale behind the new Southwest Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project. One of four additions to Calgary's primary transit network, the project includes construction of new bus-only travel lanes and new BRT stations.

"For southwest Calgary, and especially south of the reservoir, this system gives people an effective transit choice that gets them not just into downtown, but also connects with major hubs along the way," said Brian Pincott, city councillor for Ward 11.

CREB®Now sits down with Calgary Transit senior transit planner Asif Kurji

Calgary's Main Streets project is back in the news, with Calgary Transit recently outlining its involvement in the City-backed initiative.

CREB®Now recently sat down with Calgary Transit senior transit planner Asif Kurji to discuss everything from how upcoming transit projects will factor into Main Streets to why he believes the city doesn't have any secrets.

CREB®Now: For those who are not familiar with it, what is Main Streets?

Kurji: The Main Streets initiative is a City initiative that is looking at 24 main streets in Calgary. The goal is to learn and understand each street, including their history and character, and then to create a strategy to enable growth along each of the main streets. Main streets provide an opportunity for mixed-use development such as residential, commercial and retail, and make a street great for people to live, work and play. Examples of main streets being look at include Centre Street N., Edmonton Trail N.E., Ninth Avenue S.E. in Inglewood and Kensington Road N.W.

Move comes after SWBRT confrontations

The City of Calgary has launched a new online tool to give citizens and stakeholders an opportunity to have a dialogue on City projects.

This comes less than a month since the City ceased face-to-face consultations following allegations that staff members were verbally and physically assaulted during community consultations for the Calgary Southwest BRT.

"This is a new way for Calgarians to learn about and provide input on City projects," said Cindy Pickett, director of customer service and communications for the City.