How could the LRT extension to NAIT be delayed again? Was the approach to the signaling system thought through? It’s unacceptable that the opening of the LRT has been delayed until May, the fourth such delay, and we try to make sense of it. Oh, and how do you pronounce the name of the contractor? We gave it our best shot.

We discuss CP Rail’s plans to redevelop its southside rail yards. That’s a big piece of land, which could be really valuable. Will the City extend streets like 76 Avenue that currently stop at the railyards? If so, the development could have a unifying effect on the area.

And we once again discuss Uber. It was a hot topic at Council recently, with the decision in the end being to declare them illegal until such time as the Vehicle for Hire bylaws can be updated to allow services like Uber. Since we recorded, Uber has launched a petition to urge City Council to allow Uber in Edmonton.

We end with a brief discussion about disruptive TV and movie services.

Here are some relevant links for this episode:

• EPL Makerspace
• Metro Line LRT delayed again until Spring 2015, maybe, hopefully
• CP Rail to develop yard south of Whyte Avenue
• Staples: CP redevelopment could beautify, unite Edmonton’s south side
• City Council opens the door for Uber to operate legally in Edmonton

Thanks for listening!

There wasn’t a lot of fuss about the building, and Council was more or less on the same page about the deal. Even though it went to the Katz Group, no one questioned that the process followed was fair. On the whole, the announcement came and went rather smoothly. We suggest it’s because Mayor Iveson is great at the behind-the-scenes action.

And if he did that for the arena and the tower, can he do it for the LRT? Or for other big infrastructure projects? We dive into those questions and more.

Here are some relevant links for this episode:

• Edmonton Mayor Iveson is a smooth operator
• The first 100 days
• City to Consolidate Staff Working Downtown

Thanks for listening!