Onboarding the Valley Line

The Valley Line SE trains have a smart way of staying on time—they can tweak traffic lights to stay green a bit longer, helping them stay on schedule. At busier spots, the train might pause for a moment with "partial priority." At quieter spots, it gets the green light to move through the intersections faster. It's all about balancing between keeping the trains punctual and the roads moving smoothly. 

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. 

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.

The Valley Line uses 2 distinct audible signals to make it easier for everyone, especially those who are blind or have low vision, 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."

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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