I'm of the opinion you do this properly from day one. You have one chance to do this, so make sure you pick the option that considers the future of Calgary transit, the convenience for future generations and the traffic infrastructure limitations that currently exist.
Underground is the option for me, no matter what the cost. This city is now too big, too populated and too busy now to use valuable at-grade property for transportation infrastructure. Minimize the impact to current at-grade traffic flows and by putting the train underground.
It may cost more, but in the end, it will be the best option. All major cities of our size (and larger ones) are doing this.
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