Onboarding the Valley Line

Your LRT Questions, Answered

We get it - navigating the new Valley Line can raise questions. From traffic flow, pedestrian crossings and how the train interacts with traffic signals, consider this your ultimate guide to understanding how the Valley Line works, ensuring a smoother ride for everyone.

Your Frequently Ask Questions, Answered

You've watched the videos, but you still have a few questions. No worries—our FAQ section is here to ﬁll in the gaps. We tackle many topics to ensure you're fully prepared for your Valley Line SE experience. Keep scrolling to ﬁnd the answers you've been looking for.

Why does the timing of the LRT traﬃc lights change?

The timing of traffic lights along the Valley Line isn't set in stone, and there's a good reason for that. The lights are designed to adapt to real-time traffic conditions, helping to ease congestion. The priority here is keeping the LRT on schedule, which sometimes means momentarily disrupting the regular traffic light cycle.

What are two-stage crosswalks?

As you navigate a wide intersection with both roads and train tracks, you'll encounter two-stage crosswalks designed with your safety in mind. These crosswalks are divided into 2 segments—1 for the road and 1 for the tracks. You'll probably have to press the crossing button twice, but that's just to make sure you have enough time to cross each section safely. Plus, it helps keep traﬃc ﬂowing smoothly.

Why does the Valley Line use diﬀerent audible signals?

The Valley Line uses 2 distinct audible signals to make it easier for everyone, especially those who are visually impaired, to navigate crossings safely. You'll hear the familiar quick chirps when crossing a road and a longer melody for track-only crossings. To activate these audible signals, just press and hold the crossing button until you hear a light "click."

How do I enable the diﬀerent audible signals?

To trigger the diﬀerent audible signals, press and hold the crossing button for a few seconds until you hear a light "click" noise.

Why do pedestrians need to press the crossing buttons?

Pressing the crosswalk button helps activate walk signs, countdowns, and an 'all-red' phase to make sure you cross safely. In bustling downtown areas, you'll often ﬁnd that the walk signs come on automatically because there's always a crowd waiting to cross. But in quieter zones, hitting that button helps the system allocate the green light time in the most eﬃcient way possible.

Why can't I turn right on red at some Valley Line intersections?

Some intersections don't allow right turns on red to prevent accidents with approaching trains. It can be hard to see or hear a train coming from behind, so it's important to follow the signs and signals. So, keep an eye out for signs and signals; they're your best guide.

Why do I have to wait so long to proceed after the train has passed?

After a train passes, the system kicks in an "all-red phase" at the traﬃc lights to clear the intersection of pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles. This ensures everyone's safety but may result in a brief wait. If it feels like you've "missed your turn," especially when another train follows closely, it is the LRT system balancing the ﬂow of trains and road traﬃc.

Why don’t the lights change for cyclists along the Valley Line?

The Valley Line traﬃc lights won't detect your bike like they do cars. Your options? Press the crosswalk button and cross on foot, or wait for a car to trigger the light. Simple as that.

What is the all-red phase?

After a train passes, the system initiates the "all-red phase" to clear the intersection of pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles, ensuring everyone's safety.

Canada Post Service Disruption

Your LRT Questions, Answered

Traffic Flow

Pedestrian Crossings

Traﬃc Signals

Your Frequently Ask Questions, Answered