The Valley Line LRT construction project on Stony Plain Road has been in progress for a significant period. However, a unanimous decision by a city committee will see this project accelerated to speed up completion. This decision comes as a relief to local residents and businesses that have endured prolonged periods of difficulty in accessing shops and residences due to the construction work.
To expedite the construction process, several main intersections along the bustling west Edmonton thoroughfare will be temporarily closed for weeks. Todd Janes, the Executive Director of the Stony Plain Road Business Association, expressed hope that the accelerated plan would ease the pain experienced by area businesses due to the ongoing construction work.
The city’s urban planning committee has given the green light for city administration and Marigold Infrastructure Partners to move forward with the accelerated plan. This will involve closing Stony Plain Road at 124 Street for six to eight weeks at the start of the construction season.
In addition, the road’s intersection with 156 Street will also be closed for 10 to 12 weeks. By July, the 142 Street intersection would be shut for seven to nine weeks, with the aim to wrap up the Stony Plain Road construction work by September.
Despite the confirmation of an accelerated timeline, Mayor Amarjeet Sohi acknowledges the ongoing frustration experienced by businesses and commuters. He emphasizes the need for effective construction management and the necessity to meet project timelines.
Jonathan Cox, Construction Manager for Marigold, assures that the company is dedicated to reducing disruptions to the community by working efficiently on the intersections. The construction of the $2.6-billion western leg of the LRT line started in 2021 and was initially expected to take five to six years to complete. With the accelerated plan, it is now expected to be completed by 2029.
Finally, the Valley Line, once complete, will span 27 km from Mill Woods in the southeast to Lewis Farms in the west end, providing a vital transport link for the city.
