05-23-2023, 03:51 PM
(05-23-2023, 02:54 PM)westwardloo Wrote: Maybe this has already been answered, but do we have a source for where this 4.5B number is coming from. Is this a class "B" project estimate from a reputable consultant hired by the region? or is this a number that the "Fraser Institute" or some consultant paid by Anti-LRT crowd came up with to scare tax-payers away from building rapid transit? I am just having a hard time figuring out how this project could cost 4.5B. I know it will consist of a few more bridges/ overhead rails than Phase 1 and there has been a significant increase in construction cost in the last 2 years, but 4.5x the cost of phase 1 seems like a made up number that was leaked to the press and used to scare the Region from pursuing Phase 2. The entire 47 KM 26 station grade separated REM Line in Montreal is costing 6.5B. There is just something extremely fishy about this 4.5B number.
The council report says the estimates were prepared by a "specialized cost consultant" retained by the region, and are consistent with other contemporary LRT project costs based on their internal database. The report doesn't name the consulting firm or any comparable construction projects.