Opinion: It’s Time to Upgrade Churchill

Churchill Valley Line LRT Stop, captured on November 4, 2023. - Mixed Journalism Canada

As Edmonton’s LRT network grows, we must ensure accessibility is a top priority. The new expansions will connect 27 km of rail from the Valley Line with 32 km from the Capital and Metro Lines, leaving Churchill Station as the key connector.

Churchill, one of Edmonton’s original stations opened in 1978, sits at the heart of downtown. Yet, after more than 45 years, it still lacks the upgrades it desperately needs to meet growing demand.

It’s definitely possible to make the upgrades needed at Churchill, such as adding an additional elevator and fixing other ongoing issues. Stations like University and Government Centre have shown that more elevators can be effectively integrated into the design of LRT platforms, proving that Churchill can benefit from additional accessibility features. But this won’t come without challenges.

YEG Transit Community conducted a survey that highlighted areas for improvement. They found that upgrades to wayfinding—like better signs, clearer posters, and updated technology—could significantly improve riders’ experience. These changes would help people find the elevator more easily, identify which exit to use for the Valley Line, and access important information.

Not to mention, entrances to the station could be more accommodating to riders and help address the issue of homelessness. This would prevent people from sitting on stairs or lingering in undesirable areas of the station. Simple upgrades like more sounds and louder announcements could help create a safer, more welcoming environment.

Churchill can also learn a thing or two from Central Station, which has improved lighting to enhance safety and visibility. Churchill could greatly benefit from similar modernization, including automatic doors. These would not only improve accessibility but also help with the flow of traffic, especially when entering the Churchill Connector.

While Churchill Station is managed by the city, some entrances, like the Churchill Connector, are privately owned or maintained. The Connector is maintained by TransEd, along with majority of the Valley Line Southeast LRT as part of the P3 (Public-Private Partnership) project agreement.

It’s not about making the station look pretty; it’s about making Churchill Station function as best as it can, at the heart of our city, for everyone. It should be a place that’s not only accessible but also something Edmontonians can be proud of.

It’s time to stop building onto rail that doesn’t fully connect its riders. Investing in new extensions and lines only makes sense if the existing infrastructure is accessible and functional for everyone. Churchill Station’s current state is an example of why that should be the focus before further expansion.

With the upcoming LRT changes, it’s clear that Churchill needs serious improvements. These upgrades should include an additional elevator, better entrances, improved lighting, and modernized safety features.

It’s inefficient to invest in new lines without improving the existing infrastructure. As long as Churchill only has one elevator to the platform, the station’s accessibility will remain a major concern.

Mixed Journalism Canada

transit@mixedjournalism.com

Edmonton, AB