Businesses along Stony Plain Road in Edmonton are facing challenges as a result of the Valley Line West LRT construction, with customers having difficulty accessing their shops. Theo Psalios, owner of Little Village restaurant, took matters into his own hands by creating a map directing drivers on how to park near his business. Psalios stated that since construction began, he has been losing foot traffic and it becomes even more challenging when traffic patterns change due to ongoing roadwork. He called on the city to provide more signs and clear instructions to assist customers in navigating around the construction.
Ward Nakota Isga Coun. Andrew Knack expressed that businesses should not be responsible for keeping in touch with city officials and contractors regarding construction statuses; rather, it should be the other way around. Knack mentioned that most parts of the LRT construction project are on time, with road work being the only portion facing delays. He put forward a motion to accelerate LRT construction in order to address the ongoing frustrations of area residents and businesses. The plan includes shutting down several major intersections for weeks at a time, with the goal of completing the Stony Plain Road construction work by September.
The city committee has unanimously voted to move forward with the plan to accelerate construction. Knack emphasized that once the roads are completed, traffic will flow seamlessly through the area. Bruce Ferguson, City of Edmonton’s branch manager for LRT expansion and renewal, stated that resources have been created by the city and Marigold Infrastructure to help businesses adjust to the construction. Marigold Infrastructure has reached out to Little Village to provide additional information, including a map with all available accesses to the business and a construction toolkit. Additional wayfinding signage is also being worked on for businesses in the plaza.
Psalios remains hopeful that the construction will be worth it in the end, expressing a desire for the train to be full of people once the project is completed. He emphasized that if the train were to pass by empty, it would be very upsetting. Businesses along the construction site are encouraged to contact the city and Marigold Infrastructure for assistance and information regarding the ongoing construction. The goal of the accelerated construction plan is to minimize the impact on businesses and residents in the area and to ensure a smooth flow of traffic once the construction is completed.
In conclusion, the challenges faced by businesses along Stony Plain Road due to the Valley Line West LRT construction have prompted action from both business owners and city officials. While the construction has led to a loss of foot traffic and navigational difficulties for customers, efforts are being made to address these issues. The plan to accelerate construction, including shutting down major intersections for weeks at a time, aims to expedite the completion of the project and minimize disruptions. With resources and support available for businesses to adjust to the construction, there is hope that the end result will make the challenges worthwhile. As the construction progresses, collaboration between businesses, city officials, and contractors will be vital in ensuring a successful and efficient outcome for all stakeholders involved.
