Edmonton Looks at 24-Hour Transit

"'It's not a matter of if 24-7 service will happen, it's when,' transportation manager Bob Boutilier told the committee of councillors."

"Councillors put the brakes on any talk of expanding transit service until at least June, when a wide-ranging review of the Edmonton Transit System is expected to be complete. The earliest transit hours could be expanded is in 2009, because the 2008 budget has already been passed."

"Lorenzo Pagnotta, with the Transit Riders' Union of Edmonton, said he was disappointed councillors have delayed making a decision on the matter. His group has been pushing for around-the-clock transit service."

"A report considered by the transportation and public works committee found 24-hour bus service could cost as much as $15 million more a year to run. Officials estimate an average of 2,000 people would use the enhanced service each night."

"Transit routes now run as late as 1 a.m. during the week and on Saturdays, and until about midnight on Sundays."