LRT system shuts down this weekend for final testing on Metro Line
Metro LRT line opening hinges on success of next two weekends
The entire LRT system will be shut down during parts of this weekend to accommodate the final phase of testing for the long-awaited Metro LRT Line.
The line, which will connect NAIT with Churchill Station, was supposed to open in Spring 2014. It was delayed because of problems with the signalling system, which was installed by Thales Rail Signalling Solutions.
The signalling system must meet certain safety standards before it can be open to the public.
In a blog post, senior city spokesperson Graeme McElheran wrote previous tests have not gone perfectly, but well enough to move to the next phase.
LRT Shut Down
LRT service to be replaced by bus route 505, with stops at each station.
Saturday March 14: 5 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Sunday March 15: All day
McElheran wrote this upcoming test is “the last practice before the final exam on March 21-22 that Thales must pass.”
The city will replace LRT service with bus routes this weekend while the trains are stopped.
Trains will start running again at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday afternoon to shuttle crowds to the Red Bull Crashed Ice competition downtown and provide increased service from 4-11 p.m.
The LRT will be closed all of Sunday.