One person arrested after vandalism damages Edmonton's 100 Street Funicular
Twenty-one glass panels shattered in what city officials say was damage carried out over several days. Repair costs keep climbing.
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A person has been arrested after vandalism damaged 21 glass panels on Edmonton's 100 Street Funicular, marking the latest in a series of damage incidents at the downtown-to-river-valley connector.
Ward O-day'min councillor Anne Stevenson said the vandalism was carried out by one person over several days. Residents walking past the funicular expressed frustration that their tax dollars go toward repairing repeated damage rather than improving the city.
"I think it's pretty unfortunate. We spend money in taxes to improve the city and make it nice, the residents like to see it in good condition," said resident Sheldon Holland.
Earlier this year, the city estimated that vandalism-related repairs to the funicular cost between $40,000 and $70,000 each year. Stevenson confirmed the city has increased its overall vandalism budget by several million dollars due to rising damage across Edmonton.
A city spokesperson said the funicular is exploring alternative materials to glass that could prove more durable and reduce future repair costs. The 100 Street Funicular opened in late 2017 and provides access between downtown Edmonton and the North Saskatchewan River Valley.
What is the estimated cost to repair the 21 damaged panels from this incident?
Has the city identified which alternative material it is considering for the funicular's enclosure?
We'll update this story as answers emerge.
The facts
How many glass panels were damaged in this vandalism?
Twenty-one glass panels on Edmonton's 100 Street Funicular were shattered.
When did the 100 Street Funicular open?
The 100 Street Funicular opened in late 2017.
