New campaign takes aim at collisions involving Edmonton’s Valley Line LRT

Edmonton continues to see collisions involving the Valley Line LRT. With two in the last two months, it’s a frustrating trend for those at the Bonnie Doon Station who rely on the LRT.  

“There could be more safety precautions that they could have used,” said Lillian Marie, a Valley Line user.

Laura Reinoso, another Valley Line user said, “I think it’s something from both sides, like there’s obviously reckless drivers.” 

Another Valley Line user said, “I’d be pretty upset if I got hit by a train, but I really don’t think it’s the fault of the LRT or the Valley Line or the City.”

Since its opening in 2023, the Valley Line has recorded 31 crashes involving vehicles, including nine last year.

The Alberta Motor Association (AMA) says this is a big issue and is launching a campaign to remind drivers to stop for trains, stressing that avoiding signals and signs could have serious consequences, which could impact your premiums.

“When people aren’t paying attention, they’re not taking the act of driving seriously because it is a serious activity. We put everyone around us at risk,” said Hannah Hamilton, the safe communities program manager at AMA.

According to AMA, the Valley Line is unique, noting a lower number of crashes for train lines with crossing arms.

Data from the city shows no crashes involving the Capital or Metro Line LRTs last year.

“I think that would be helpful. I don’t. I don’t see why we don’t have them here,” said a Valley Line user. “There may be issues of unclear signages but I feel like at this point, Edmontonian drivers should know by now to look out for LRT. Especially in more frequent areas 

Marie adds, “I think it would have been way better if we had crossroads arms.”

But one city councilor says there are no plans to add crossing arms for the Valley Line, saying it’s the driver’s responsibility to look and follow signs and signals.

“When it comes to traffic, signaling and signage, I do believe some improvements have been made to ensure that drivers are well aware of the rules that exist. But yeah, any adaptations when it comes to crossing arms, unlikely to be moving forward at this time,” said Ashley Salvador, the councillor for Ward Métis.

AMA is hoping to see fewer crashes this year.

“Giving yourself enough time to do your commute without feeling rushed in it so that you don’t take shortcuts,” said Hamilton.