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Melanistic Magazine - Vol 9
OLIVER BOWEN
BY:GREG DAVIS
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THE C TRAIN
Measured on the basis of ingenuity, the systemic restrictions that had to be overcome, and the long-reaching impact of his creations, Oliver Bowen is at the top of our list of Albertans who have left a strong legacy. Grandson of Amber Valley settlers who relocated from America, Oliver Bowen went on to graduate from the University of Alberta in civil engineering. He made his name managing the design and construction of the first C-Train line in Calgary.
Oliver Bowen Image Courtesy of The City of Calgary Archives
Oliver Bowen started his career with the City of Calgary, landing this job before graduating in 1965. He was a special projects engineer assigned to developing arterial roadways within the city. By 1977 he had been promoted to the position of manager of the Light Rail Transit Division and with a budget of 100 million dollars and 5 years, Calgary’s first line was laid, operating on time and under budget. Eventually in 1984 he was named Director of Transportation for the City of Calgary.
THE C TRAIN AS WE KNOW IT TODAY IS A VITAL PART OF THE CALGARIAN LIFESTYLE AND ECONOMY
The C Train as we know it today is a vital part of the Calgarian lifestyle and economy, connecting commuters to various locations in the city including the Calgary Zoo, Telus Spark, Chinook Shopping Centre and Fish Creek Park. The Stampede City’s continued operation and reliance on the C-Train, even decades later, solidifies the legacy of Oliver Bowen and is a testament to the value of his contribution to the lives of Calgarians.
