There will be another LRT line added to Edmonton’s transit system. The Valley Line will run southeast to west from Millwoods to Lewis Farms, crossing over the river and through downtown. Construction will begin in early and is expected to be completed by late 2020. Here are 9 important things you should know about the Valley Line LRT.

1. It will be 27 kilometres long. It will start at Mill Woods Town Centre, cross the river at Cloverdale, turn west through downtown and continue to the Lewis Farms Transit Centre west of Anthony Henday Drive.
2. Trains will run every five minutes during peak hours.
3. It will only take 30 minutes to get downtown from both Mill Woods and Lewis Farms transit stations.
4. It’s considered an urban LRT so it will have more stops spaced closer together.
5. Stops in many areas will provide quick links to popular bus, cyclist and pedestrian connections.
6. A new bridge will be constructed replacing the Cloverdale footbridge. It will include a pedestrian and cyclist access below the LRT deck.
7. Unlike current LRT crossings, in most areas the urban-style Valley Line will not have gates, bells, fences or crossing arms. The LTR right-of-way will be clearly marked ensuring safety for cars, pedestrians and riders.
8. It will have the same fairs, security and services offered across the entire Edmonton Transit System.
9. The city has invested in architectural features, landscaping and streetscaping to ensure the line blends in and is visually appealing.

Although it will take several years for the Valley Line LRT to be complete, it’s answering a long-time plea for more efficient public transportation in the city. Well done, City of Edmonton. Well done.