Posted by 
TransEd needs to replace cables before it can open Edmonton’s long-delayed Valley Line Southeast LRT.
Recent testing found cables need to be replaced to “improve long-term system reliability” the consortium building the LRT announced in a news release on Monday, the first substantive update in months. TransEd is responsible for absorbing the added costs, meaning the City of Edmonton will not spend more.
A new opening date has not been set since cracks were found in 30 of the line’s 45 piers last year, delaying the train’s public operation indefinitely. The company says it is working with the city on the opening date after the cable upgrades and verification “nears completion later this summer.”
TransEd did not offer details on the specific problems with the cables. Train testing will continue while the cables are installed, according to the company.
“To ensure future reliability, we have decided to replace and upgrade the cables now to ensure the system will perform to our high standards while we operate it over the next 30 years, and for many years beyond,” Ronald Joncas, TransEd CEO, said in a news release.
TransEd began system-wide demonstration testing along the 13-kilometre line in March.
Despite problems with cables, Joncas said the trains met expectations for performance during the tests.
“As I have said previously, we have designed and built this LRT to be a long-lasting system as per City requirements, and we are committed to delivering a safe, reliable and high-quality system that Edmontonians expect and deserve.”
TransEd is also finalizing and submitting documentation for review by an independent certified, which is needed for trains to open to the public.
