EDMONTON — Edmonton Valley Line Southeast LRT repairs are almost 100 per cent complete, bringing the first stage of the project close to its end.
During a news conference at the end of December, TransEd CEO Ronald Joncas said repairs to the piers are 94 per cent finished.
“I want to particularly thank the 100 plus men and women who have worked safely since the cracks were discovered this summer,” said Joncas.
“It is by their hard work and their continuous effort, 24/7, that we are now able to reopen the elevated guideway for train traffic.”
Once repairs and testing are officially concluded, the first stage of the $1.8 billion project will be complete.
The southeast line will run between Mill Woods Transit Centre and downtown Edmonton.
As of Dec. 20, all the concrete diaphragms had been poured, external steel beams set, minor repairs for train operation completed and beams bolted around the piers, said Joncas.
Final work remaining includes concrete surface finishing and cleanup.
“We are excited to begin final line wide testing, demonstration and safety certification in January,” he said.
He asked the public to exercise caution around LRT lines.
“We are aware of pedestrians jaywalking across the LRT lines and not using the crosswalk. This is unsafe and dangerous behaviour that we noticed everywhere, especially in the downtown area. So please, if you see a track, expect a train and abide by the rules and regulation in place.”
For now, testing the entire 13 kilometre line is a priority before full operation begins.
Testing involves double checking ride quality and comfort along the entire track and of the overhead power lines, performing operational scenarios and testing special event services.
“We are now at the end of this road,” he said.
“But let me remind you again that we will not overstep any safety requirements or certification process. We will abide by those and we will open when the track is fully commissioned to the requirements under the contract.”
The LRT to the southeast was already delayed by 10 years. By the time it runs, City has already expanded to Beaumont, and then they will start working on expansion and need another 12 to 15 years to extend it to Beaumont. So, it will be crowded at Millwood town center with only parking less than 300 cars which shows the signal as a failed project.