Blueprint for Calgary 2018 includes bullet train

A high-speed train to Fort McMurray, a ring road, new research centres and more affordable housing are key to Calgary's growth in the next 10 years, says a city report.

Calgary's 10-year economic development strategy, written by a task force of 17 people from business and government sectors, was introduced to a city committee Wednesday morning for preliminary approval.

The 31-page draft report focused on three goals: making the city more livable, more conducive to businesses and enterprise, and more well-known around the world.

It suggests a high-speed rail line linking Calgary, Edmonton and Fort McMurray, as well as a Calgary ring road, should be high priorities.

The strategy also advocates creating more childcare and senior-care spaces as well as building more affordable housing to make living in Calgary more attractive and to help businesses keep workers from moving away.

Other recommendations include:

• The creation of world-class health and energy research centres.
• A city-wide, high-speed wireless Internet network to support business, community and telework initiatives.
• A covered skyway or monorail to link the TELUS Convention Centre with Calgary Stampede facilities.
• A centre of excellence in film and digital media.
• An international aerospace hub at the Springbank Airport, including testing facilities for composite aircraft.

The report did not include cost estimates for any of the recommendations, which would likely run into the billions.

Mayor Dave Bronconnier said the plan is not carved in stone.

"It's intended to be a game plan or a road map for the private sector, local institutions and organizations and are talking points with senior levels of government to align the plans consistent with the government of Canada, the province of Alberta and of course our own city of Calgary initiatives."