Construction for the future Green Line LRT in the southeast community of Ogden is progressing into its next phase, with road closures and detours expected as part of preliminary construction work in the area. The project involves extending 78 Avenue S.E. through a tunnel under the CP Rail line and building a new road connection on the east side of the tracks to replace the existing at-grade crossing at 69 Avenue S.E. This work aims to improve traffic flow and safety in the area, according to Green Line officials.
The next phase of construction, starting in two weeks, will involve major roadwork on 78th Avenue between the CP Rail tracks and Ogden Road. While residents like Jill Woronchak are looking forward to the Green Line coming through the community, they are concerned about the upcoming road closures. The planned upgrades on 78th Avenue include a multi-use pathway, two-way vehicle traffic, and a turning lane approaching Ogden Road. Project officials also plan to install upgraded stormwater and utility infrastructure, as well as landscaping and sidewalk improvements.
During the construction phase, access to driveways and alleyways may be temporarily impacted, with traffic and pedestrian detours throughout the area. Waste and recycling services are expected to continue as normal, but collection for homes south of 78th Avenue will be from behind residences. Residents like Russell Mercer, who live nearby, are primarily concerned about parking outside their homes due to increased traffic in the area. The project team is working to ensure there is enough room for vehicles to turn around on adjacent streets once 78th Avenue is closed.
Construction in the area began last summer, with crews building embankments to temporarily move the CP Rail lines to make way for the tunnel at 78 Avenue and a pedestrian tunnel on 72 Avenue S.E. Project officials emphasize the importance of this initial work in order to progress with the main Green Line construction in the future. The upcoming phase of construction on 78 Avenue is expected to be completed in the fall and will also include the construction of a roundabout east of the CP Rail tracks. Once completed, 78 Avenue S.E. will not be designated as a truck route.
Despite the temporary inconveniences caused by construction, some residents in the area are looking forward to the benefits of having a new LRT. Mercer expressed excitement about the convenience of having a new station nearby for commuting downtown. Project officials are committed to minimizing disruption to residents during construction by making necessary adjustments and keeping an eye on traffic flow in the area. The completion of the tunnel and related infrastructure is seen as a significant step towards the overall goal of establishing the Green Line LRT in Ogden, improving transportation options for residents in the community and beyond.
