Statement on Valley Line Southeast Delay

Like many Edmontonians, I was deeply dismayed to learn about the additional delay on the opening of Valley Line LRT Southeast. It’s frustrating that we continue to wait for this critical connection and that we currently don’t know how long we might be waiting.

I’m glad to know that the City’s financial interests have been protected through the fixed cost contract, but there are many costs to the ongoing delays in the lives of people near the line, including in the heart of our city. While construction on the piers in the southeast will need to continue, I’m hopeful that we can minimize the ongoing impact of this project to Ward O-day’min and wrap up construction disruptions in the core as soon as possible - including removing all remaining fencing.

Large infrastructure projects are not easy feats, and the safety of future users and neighbours must always be our first priority. I’m glad that there are no corners being cut, even if it is inconvenient and disappointing to see further delays. I’m hopeful that we can take what needs to be learned from this experience to inform future projects’ design and construction, especially Valley Line West.

Despite the delays, the Valley Line Southeast will open and I look forward to the day when we can take the first ride together.