[yyc_engineer]

They typically use wooden ties under the planks at level crossings - easier to attach the planks and crank them down flat to the wood.

That's right. The wood ties are only used under the at-grade crossings. The rest of the ground level track is on concrete ties and the elevated/trenched/tunneled sections are on concrete bearing plinths.

Here's a pic from today that shows the crossing planks in action.

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5040/5881653989_4c87fd193a.jpg

[srperrycgy]

Here's a clearer example from the NE Extension construction at Saddletowne Circle:

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6004/5891702899_2501302776_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/lrtincalgary/5891702899/)
NEC2-07012011-14 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/lrtincalgary/5891702899/) by srp775 (http://www.flickr.com/people/lrtincalgary/), on Flickr

[Innersoul1]

I have had a number of opportunities to drive the length of the WestLRT route over the passed few days. It's fascinating to see how they go about staging the different sections as far as allowances for traffic and such. I found it interesting that they have already started to install sections of rail west of Crowchild Trail. And by sections I literally mean sections of 20 feet. Funny thing was that the rail wasn't being delivered on flat bed trucks as i expected but in containers.

[frinkprof]

Here's some photos from today at Shaganappi Point Station

Looking east toward downtown from the west end of the south platform. Some roofing materials going up over the station.

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/IMG_1247.jpg


Looking west from the same spot

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/IMG_1248.jpg


Ramp on the west side of the south platform. The north platform also has one on the west side. They aren't completed on the east side yet.

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/IMG_1251.jpg


North side of the at-grade crossing of 26th Street

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/IMG_1252.jpg


South side of the at-grade crossing of 26th Street

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/IMG_1253.jpg


Looking west from the east end of the south platform

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/IMG_1254.jpg


Track bed level. The piles along the middle will be for the catenary (overhead wire) system

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/IMG_1255.jpg


http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/IMG_1249.jpg

[5seconds]

Track bed level. The piles along the middle will be for the catenary (overhead wire) system

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/IMG_1255.jpg


Thanks for the pictures!

Does anyone know, is there any reason they need the piles to hold up the wires, instead of attaching them to the roof structure?

[MalcolmTucker]

I would guess value engineering? Also the posts will be good to hand advertisements on possibly? Edit: you can see bolt holes on the ribs likely for cat mounting, forms for station lighting likely.

[frinkprof]

Thanks for the pictures!

Does anyone know, is there any reason they need the piles to hold up the wires, instead of attaching them to the roof structure?Actually that part was my assumption. They may be for catenary poles and signs, or just signs.

[5seconds]

I like the idea of a clean, open station, but I guess there must be a reason. Advertisements and sign-posting makes sense. I can't imagine those piles would be cheaper than using the roof, even with re-enforcements, but then I'm no engineer!

[Innersoul1]

Great Pics Frink. If you look at that last pic of the piles for the catenary you will notice that green wire sticking out. The elevated guideway seems to have thos wire protruding along the railing every 2 feet. Any idea what those are for?

Additionally, they are having some good progress with painting the guideway. It really makes it look quite nice. Every time I drive under the section above bow trail i think about how shitty it looks at the joints. The paint really cleans it up!

[sim]

Would anyone here happen to have access to the West LRT Land Acquisition Program? There are only a few mentions of it on the West LRT site, specifically in the Feb 2008 Newsletter publication archives. However, it only mentions that once completed it would be released on the site. Nothing, nor with the city's Corporate Properties and Buildings. I've emailed both, but fear that with Stampede week I may not get much for a reply before the weekend.

Would be greatly appreciated if possible, but not sure of my chances on this one.

[The Chemist]

Great Pics Frink. If you look at that last pic of the piles for the catenary you will notice that green wire sticking out. The elevated guideway seems to have thos wire protruding along the railing every 2 feet. Any idea what those are for?

Additionally, they are having some good progress with painting the guideway. It really makes it look quite nice. Every time I drive under the section above bow trail i think about how shitty it looks at the joints. The paint really cleans it up!

Green wires are usually electrical grounding wires.

[MrBigStuff]

I was up at the west end of the city last week and the at grade crossing on Costello, near the WentWorth Campus, was very nicely done - nice to drive over. It looks like that is going to be the trend for the West LRT crossings - which will be very nice. It's definately a lot smoother than the downtown crossings.

[SubwayRev]

Why does Shaganappi Station have ramps on the West side of the platforms? Wouldn't that just lead to...nothing?

[MrOunce]

Last night Bow Trail was closed from 8pm to 6am between Crowchild and 33rd street. The reason for this was the pedestrian bridge was move into place at 24th street.

I drove through it this morning and have to admit that this looks fantastic, the color and shape are fantastic with the ellipsis. A bit of a "wow" moment while driving.

[frinkprof]

Why does Shaganappi Station have ramps on the West side of the platforms? Wouldn't that just lead to...nothing?Emergency exits.

[SubwayRev]

Emergency exits.

Of course. Thanks.

[Blue_Cypress]

Great Pics Frink. If you look at that last pic of the piles for the catenary you will notice that green wire sticking out. The elevated guideway seems to have thos wire protruding along the railing every 2 feet. Any idea what those are for?


You will see this all over the system. The intent is to keep everything that is conductive, and is within reach of the catenary, electrically grounded. The reason AFAIK is to protect users/operators from electrical faults during failure events (broken catenary wire, for example.) The proliferation of grounding points would serve to channel electrical energy safely away in an accident. Probably handles any induced loads from induction or natural electrical events (lightning, static) nicely too.

[UofC.engineer]

Pics on the West LRT website have been updated:

http://www.westlrt.ca/contentdesign/constructiondashboard.cfm

[frinkprof]

I went to 69th Street Station today - working at the very top of the east station head. Took a bunch of pictures from up there, as well as detail on the work on the station head but they didn't save properly on the memory card.

[eggbert]

Pics on the West LRT website have been updated:

http://www.westlrt.ca/contentdesign/constructiondashboard.cfm

There are some fantastic pictures in there. Thanks for posting the link.

[frinkprof]

Managed to get the photos.

Looking east from the top of the east station head.

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/IMG_1867.jpg


Looking west from the top of the east station head.

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/IMG_1868.jpg


Looking down into the lower level of the east station head. Elevator shaft is on the left side of the photo.

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/IMG_1869.jpg


Decorative wall on south side of the trench.

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/IMG_1870.jpg


Decorative wall on north side of the trench.

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/IMG_1871.jpg


Looking up from the lower level of the east station head. The first photos in this set were taken from the upper level where the wood railing is.

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/IMG_1872.jpg


Looking up from the lower level of the east station head. At the lower center of the photo you can see the opening where the elevator door will be.

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/IMG_1873.jpg


A look inside the lower level of the east station head.

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/IMG_1874.jpg


A window opening in the lower level of the east station. The window is on the north wall.

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/IMG_1876.jpg


Looking east down the south side of the tunnel.

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/IMG_1878.jpg

[armorand93]

Whats the interior of 69th going to look like? I'm a Winnipegger and have no idea, by the way :P

[srperrycgy]

24th St. Pedestrian Bridge Construction:

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6145/5996005969_f05bdc9005_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/lrtincalgary/5996005969/)
WLRT-07312011-2 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/lrtincalgary/5996005969/) by srp775 (http://www.flickr.com/people/lrtincalgary/), on Flickr

[Innersoul1]

Great pictures Frink!

That pedestrian bridge is awesome! Can't wait to see the final product.

Armourand. Check out westlrt.ca for the renderings

[O-tacular]

They have LED's on at night now at the 69th St. parkade. The south side and a section of the north are working. Looks kick ass!

[frinkprof]

New photos on westlrt.ca

24th Street Pedestrian Bridge

http://www.westlrt.ca/images/construction/june2011/fullsize/24-Street-SW-pedestrian-bridge.jpg


45th Street Station

http://www.westlrt.ca/images/construction/june2011/fullsize/45-Street-Station.jpg


45th Street Station - Platform Level

http://www.westlrt.ca/images/construction/june2011/fullsize/45-Street-Station---platform-level.jpg


69th Street Station

http://www.westlrt.ca/images/construction/june2011/fullsize/69-Street-Station.jpg


69th Street Station - West Station Head in Foreground

http://www.westlrt.ca/images/construction/june2011/fullsize/69-Street-Station---west-station-head.jpg


Bow Trail/26th Street

http://www.westlrt.ca/images/construction/june2011/fullsize/Bow-Trail-at-26-Street-SW.jpg


Elevated Guideway

http://www.westlrt.ca/images/construction/june2011/fullsize/Elevated-guideway.jpg


Finished Track on Guideway

http://www.westlrt.ca/images/construction/june2011/fullsize/Finished-LRT-track---elevated-guideway.jpg


LRT Bridge Over Sarcee Trail

http://www.westlrt.ca/images/construction/june2011/fullsize/LRT-bridge-over-Sarcee-Trail.jpg


Trench West of 45th Street

http://www.westlrt.ca/images/construction/june2011/fullsize/LRT-Trench-construction---west-of-45-Street-SW-.jpg


Trench West of 69th Street - This is where the tail tracks will be

http://www.westlrt.ca/images/construction/june2011/fullsize/LRT-trench---west-of-69-Street-SW.jpg


Westbound Bow Trail Lanes

http://www.westlrt.ca/images/construction/june2011/fullsize/New-westbound-Bow-Trail-traffic-lanes.jpg


Sarcee Trail and 17th Ave. Interchange

http://www.westlrt.ca/images/construction/june2011/fullsize/Sarcee-Trail-17-Avenue-S.W.-interchange.jpg


Shaganappi Point Station

http://www.westlrt.ca/images/construction/june2011/fullsize/Shaganappi-Point-Station.jpg


Sirocco Station

http://www.westlrt.ca/images/construction/june2011/fullsize/Sirocco-Station.jpg


Sunalta Station

http://www.westlrt.ca/images/construction/june2011/fullsize/Sunalta-Station.jpg


Sunalta Station - Platform Level

http://www.westlrt.ca/images/construction/june2011/fullsize/Sunalta-Station---platform-level.jpg


Tunnel Portal West of Shaganappi Point Station

http://www.westlrt.ca/images/construction/june2011/fullsize/Tunnel-doors-west-of-Shaganappi-Point-Station.jpg


Utility Work Under Costello Blvd.

http://www.westlrt.ca/images/construction/june2011/fullsize/Utility-work-under-Costello-Boulevard.jpg


Westbrook Station

http://www.westlrt.ca/images/construction/june2011/fullsize/Westbrook-Station.jpg

[Boris2k7]

The stations look like they are all coming along really well. Red is totally in for pedestrian bridges in Calgary.

:tup:

[O-tacular]

I only have one question: Do you fly a helicopter for a living or something?

[frinkprof]

I only have one question: Do you fly a helicopter for a living or something?Well the most recent set of photos is from the westlrt.ca website, as noted above.

To answer your question more directly though, the answer is no. I don't fly any of my helicopters anymore. I focus more on my yacht and F1 cars these days.

[Reesonov]

To answer your question more directly though, the answer is no. I don't fly any of my helicopters anymore. I focus more on my yacht and F1 cars these days.

Another victim of this ruthless recession! ;)

[Cabbage]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v207/cscutch/Westbrook-Station_Park.jpg

The Highlighted section in red is aprox the size of the park that will be over the station... Hopefully it is done well, because it has potential to be a good spot with easy access.

Chris

[bigcanuck]

Tunnel Portal West of Shaganappi Point Station

http://www.westlrt.ca/images/construction/june2011/fullsize/Tunnel-doors-west-of-Shaganappi-Point-Station.jpg


The new road on the left (south) side of the tunnel in this image opened up yesterday. It's 3 lanes wide but only 2 are open currently.

[Rise_of_the_West]

Noticed that several of the arches are up on the west end of the 45th Street station today. Concrete rail sleepers were also being added today to the track bed west of the station leading up to the sarcee overpass.

[srperrycgy]

The Highlighted section in red is aprox the size of the park that will be over the station... Hopefully it is done well, because it has potential to be a good spot with easy access.


The "park" won't be permanent. Aside from one "central" park, the area will be redeveloped to take advantage of proximity to Transit.

Westbrook ARP (http://http://www.westlrt.ca/stationareas/westbrookarp.cfm)

[CorporateWhore]

This feels like such a "big city" project. Loving the way it's coming along.

[freeweed]

This feels like such a "big city" project. Loving the way it's coming along.

It truly does. Not sure if you've had a chance to see any of the project in person, but when you get up and close that's precisely what it feels like - "big city". It's damned impressive for little Calgary.

[polishavenger]

It truly does. Not sure if you've had a chance to see any of the project in person, but when you get up and close that's precisely what it feels like - "big city". It's damned impressive for little Calgary.

Im hoping the elevated guideway sets a precedent for a possible NCLRT up center street, and a potential future upgrade of the NE LRT to and elevated guideway up 36th street. I hope they make good use of the space below to avoid any ghettofication there.

[CorporateWhore]

It truly does. Not sure if you've had a chance to see any of the project in person, but when you get up and close that's precisely what it feels like - "big city". It's damned impressive for little Calgary.

I come to Calgary about twice and year, so I get sporadic looks of the various projects. The one thing about doing so is that you only see the big jumps in progress, which makes it feel more dramatic. I definitely look forward to checking the progress of everything. Still waiting to come to town one one day, and see that bloody Peace Bridge though....

Speaking of big city, they are currently building a rather big subway line in Manhattan, and you barely see any physical signs of it's existence (and not that much mention in the media or day to day life either)...in comparison it seems like half of western Calgary is dug up for the West LRT. Most of the action for the 2nd ave Subway is underground of course, but it's an absolutely massive project.

[Innersoul1]

It would appear that the Westbrook Station building/office is now officially above grade. They put up the first big wall forms today.

[mooky]

Speaking of big city, they are currently building a rather big subway line in Manhattan, and you barely see any physical signs of it's existence (and not that much mention in the media or day to day life either)...in comparison it seems like half of western Calgary is dug up for the West LRT. Most of the action for the 2nd ave Subway is underground of course, but it's an absolutely massive project.

Sure you can... and now for a musical interlude *off-topic in as much as the guy works on the 2nd ave subway and is on his lunch break when this was filmed*:

yoOwCSgvNs0

[The Chemist]

Speaking of big city, they are currently building a rather big subway line in Manhattan, and you barely see any physical signs of it's existence (and not that much mention in the media or day to day life either)...in comparison it seems like half of western Calgary is dug up for the West LRT. Most of the action for the 2nd ave Subway is underground of course, but it's an absolutely massive project.

Well, if it's anything like Metro construction in Shanghai, the only places you're likely to see evidence of construction are at places where stations will be located. Everything else is pretty well hidden. TBMs don't leave a lot of evidence of their work. :D

There are currently 4 Metro lines (primarily underground, but some elevated sections as well) U/C in Shanghai, and the only places where work on the underground sections is visible on the surface is at station locations.

[Innersoul1]

Lots of great things happening on the WLRT with the fantastic weather we have been having. The copper panelling for Shaganappi Point Station was delivered last night. I imagine that installation will begin soon. They are also prepping the ground between Shag Point and the Westbrook tunnel for rail.

Couple questions that have popped into my head after numerous drives past the station areas (as always I appreciate the knowledge of those in the "know"):

I noticed that just east of the Shag point station the Eastbound lanes of Bow trail are at a higher grade than the westbound ones. They have used modular concrete blocks (like lego) to create the retaining wall above the LRT tracks. Is this the way of the future, it doesn't seem as proper as the normal poured concrete walls or square segments that they normally use. Can anyone comment on this?

Totally a mega project! i love to see the progress taking place!

[mersar]

I noticed that just east of the Shag point station the Eastbound lanes of Bow trail are at a higher grade than the westbound ones. They have used modular concrete blocks (like lego) to create the retaining wall above the LRT tracks. Is this the way of the future, it doesn't seem as proper as the normal poured concrete walls or square segments that they normally use. Can anyone comment on this?

Totally a mega project! i love to see the progress taking place!

They used a similar system on the NW extension to Crowfoot, if you're driving east bound you can see the retaining wall holding the west bound lanes above the right of way.

[You Need A Thneed]

Lots of great things happening on the WLRT with the fantastic weather we have been having. The copper panelling for Shaganappi Point Station was delivered last night. I imagine that installation will begin soon. They are also prepping the ground between Shag Point and the Westbrook tunnel for rail.

Couple questions that have popped into my head after numerous drives past the station areas (as always I appreciate the knowledge of those in the "know"):

I noticed that just east of the Shag point station the Eastbound lanes of Bow trail are at a higher grade than the westbound ones. They have used modular concrete blocks (like lego) to create the retaining wall above the LRT tracks. Is this the way of the future, it doesn't seem as proper as the normal poured concrete walls or square segments that they normally use. Can anyone comment on this?

Totally a mega project! i love to see the progress taking place!

Concrete blocks like this:

http://www.nilex.com/sites/default/files/images/banner_node12.jpg

Or like this:

http://redirockofhouston.com/images/layout/product-re.jpg

Or like this:

http://www.lockblock.com/images/applications/3.jpg

[eggbert]

^ If I'm not mistaken, they look like the 3rd picture.

[Innersoul1]

^ If I'm not mistaken, they look like the 3rd picture.

Correct.

Yeah, I mean obviously these guys know what they are doing but I just think that overall they look temporary and cheap. Your first picture is more of what I would have expected. That being said, i assume that the reason they went with this choice is because they are sturdy and easy to install without closing the eastbound lanes of Bowtrail to do the proper compacting needed to allow the installation of the blocks used in image 1.

[Calgarian]

If they paint the concrete it will look great IMO.

[Rise_of_the_West]

A few updated from today:

-The arches for the 45th street station entry off of 17th/45th (ie above street level) were going up today. Sleepers are down from 45th across sarcee from what i could tell.

-Westside Parkade appears to be done. Glass is in for the stairs and noticed they were cleaning it the other day. It will most likely open with the school in the fall i presume.

- Noticed a lot of speeders/tailgaters (most in SUV's) in the construction zone today. Slow it down folks! 17th is 50km/h for a reason. Its in rather poor shape to begin with not to mention the safety of construction crews.

[frinkprof]

Some photos I took at Sunalta Station yesterday evening

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/P8140017.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/P8140019.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/P8140020.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/P8140021.jpg


Glass going up

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/P8140023.jpg


Underside

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/P8140025.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/P8140026.jpg


Copper roofing going up

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/P8140029.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/P8140030.jpg


East end of the station again

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/frinkprof/P8140031.jpg

[srperrycgy]

Nice shots of Sunalta, Mr. Frink. :tup:

From my weekly walk over to Westbrook, I can report that the tunnel concrete work is complete (as far as I can see). Backfilling has started near the Westbrook Station site as well. "Mount Westbrook", the pile of excavated fill is being brought down. My best guess is that the tunnel structure will be filled in over 35th Street and roadwork complete before they remove the temporary bridge over 37th Street, which will cause some traffic problems.

[Innersoul1]

Those concrete stairs at Sunalta are going to be a joy to clean in the winter!

[5seconds]

Those concrete stairs at Sunalta are going to be a joy to clean in the winter!

You would think that the cost of snow removal alone would be more than justify covering the stairs. Are there plans to cover those stairs? I would love to see the 'tunnel' shape of the station continued to ground level, especially if they did the copper roof.

EDIT: Nope, no covering in the plans.

[kw5150]

Those concrete stairs at Sunalta are going to be a joy to clean in the winter!

yeah, they should be covered maybe?

[You Need A Thneed]

yeah, they should be covered maybe?

They have to clear the rest of the pedestrian bridge anyway, why cover the stairs if you aren't going to cover everything?

[5seconds]

They have to clear the rest of the pedestrian bridge anyway, why cover the stairs if you aren't going to cover everything?

Stairs are harder/more time consuming to clear, and they have the potential for more accidents.

[You Need A Thneed]

Stairs are harder/more time consuming to clear, and they have the potential for more accidents.

If those stairs are snowy, people could always use the indoor stairs.

[kw5150]

They have to clear the rest of the pedestrian bridge anyway, why cover the stairs if you aren't going to cover everything?

I dunno. :shrug:

[mersar]

Those concrete stairs at Sunalta are going to be a joy to clean in the winter!

I'd wonder if they are heated like the stairs from the +15 at 4th Street Station. That alone takes care of a lot of the cleaning the snow off issue.

[5seconds]

If those stairs are snowy, people could always use the indoor stairs.

Yea, if the city are not going to commit to clearing them, and the density of people using the station doesn't warrant it, then the other stairs are more cost effective!

I'd wonder if they are heated like the stairs from the +15 at 4th Street Station. That alone takes care of a lot of the cleaning the snow off issue.

That would be a good idea. I wonder if there is any excess heat from a station like that, that could be funneled into that kind of use.

[Bigtime]

Sunalta station:

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6064/6085579523_ef231a76e0_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bigtimeaa/6085579523/)
Sunalta Station (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bigtimeaa/6085579523/) by BigtimeAa (http://www.flickr.com/people/bigtimeaa/), on Flickr

[Calgarian]

Love that copper roof.

[Ferreth]

Sunalta station:

[...]Flickr

That is going to be a sweet station to get some sunset pictures!

[bigcanuck]

Copper roof is now being installed at Shaganappi - the first 10 or 20 feet were there on Friday afternoon (NW corner).

[Calgarian]

That is going to be a sweet station to get some sunset pictures!

The glare off that copper roof is crazy bright coming down Bow Tr. at sunset.

[You Need A Thneed]

I wish that the copper roof at MKWW station had EVER looked like that.

[glam]

What's really cool too is the copper glazing going underneath the station to complete the circle more or less. That looks stunning.

[frinkprof]

West LRT work intensifying


By Clara Ho, Calgary Herald August 31, 2011

Residents in Calgary’s west end are being warned of another period of heavy construction, noise and road closures as the city gears up for more work on the west LRT line this week.

[...]

“At this point, there’s minimal risk for construction to head over (schedule),” said project spokesman Ryan Murray, adding construction will go ahead rain or shine.

However, he warned residents to expect heavy work through September, October and even into November.

Crews are planning to remove two temporary bridges in the area, which could turn 37 Street north of 17 Avenue S.W. from four lanes of traffic to one lane in each direction for a period of up to three weeks, Murray said.

“It’s not going to be pretty,” he added.

Glenn Webber, vice-president of the Westgate Community Association, said community members have accepted that construction needs to be done, adding: “the sooner they get it done, the sooner it’ll be over.”

But what community members remain concerned about is a lack of privacy, sound screening and visual screening for when the LRT line is completed, he said.

“Because they built a ramp up to clear Sarcee Trail, the train is going to be sitting about 20 feet above houses on Westwood Drive. People on the trains are going to be staring into their front yards,” Webber said. “For our community, it’s not just the construction. We will be living with this permanently.”

[...]

The old Ernest Manning School building is yet to be demolished as the city is still trying to get a contractor to lead that process, Murray said.Link to the rest of the article (http://www.calgaryherald.com/West+work+intensifying/5336768/story.html#ixzz1Wiyb6t88)

[MrOunce]

Thanks for the post Frinkprof, I live in the Westbrook area and was not aware of the Bow Trail closures this weekend (observant much?). Otherwise, I would have been hit hard with some serious delays.

Looks like I will be using other alternative roads to get around.

[Calgarian]

The girlfriend and I like to take the dog to Edworthy park a few times a week, guess that's going to stop for a while.

[srperrycgy]

Thanks for the post Frinkprof, I live in the Westbrook area and was not aware of the Bow Trail closures this weekend (observant much?). Otherwise, I would have been hit hard with some serious delays.

Looks like I will be using other alternative roads to get around.

Go to http://www.westlrt.ca and sign up for Traffic Alerts. :tup:

[albertantraingeek]

The girlfriend and I like to take the dog to Edworthy park a few times a week, guess that's going to stop for a while.

Ya, It's severly interrupting with my Railfanning in that spot!:hell: I guess it's back to bearspaw dam for a while. :slob:

[Bigtime]

Ya, It's severly interrupting with my Railfanning in that spot!:hell: I guess it's back to bearspaw dam for a while. :slob:

Railfanning? Is that the equivalent of an airplane spotter?

[srperrycgy]

Railfanning? Is that the equivalent of an airplane spotter?

Yep, it is. ;)

[Bigtime]

So we just call ourselves "spotters", are you "fanners"? ;)

[srperrycgy]

:previous: Not sure, but that sounds right. I'm not a big rail fan, but I appreciate a good train. :cool:

[Calgarian]

Trains can be pretty cool, especially the really long ones. They are kind of annoying at 3AM though lol.

[Bigtime]

:previous: Not sure, but that sounds right. I'm not a big rail fan, but I appreciate a good train. :cool:

That's what she said.

[DizzyEdge]

:previous: Not sure, but that sounds right. I'm not a big rail fan, but I appreciate a good train. :cool:

That's what she said.

Trains can be pretty cool, especially the really long ones. They are kind of annoying at 3AM though lol.


*thats* what she said.

[Innersoul1]

Trainspotting would also be accepted.

[fusili]

Trainspotting would also be accepted.

Looking for tracks Mr. Renton?

[albertantraingeek]

:haha: Come back to this after a day offline :haha:

Railfanning- Watching one or more trains at a specific location for ones personal enjoyment. Most people use tripods & Camcorders too (Me included!:notacrook:)
The unofficial best place to railfan in Calgary is at the west end of Bearspaw Dam Road in that little parking lot where a lot of people take their dogs for a walk.

[albertantraingeek]

[QUOTE=Calgarian;5398784]Trains can be pretty cool, especially the really long ones. [\QUOTE]

Actually, although a train is a train, the 4 Kilometre long potash trains running west every 10 minutes are getting pretty damn boring :haha:. Me & my buddies agree that the General Electric Trash that is lugging it over Kicking horse is even more more unworthy.:yuck: Constantly having failures then spurting flames out the stack is something to see though :haha:

[Innersoul1]

[QUOTE=Calgarian;5398784]Trains can be pretty cool, especially the really long ones. [\QUOTE]

Actually, although a train is a train, the 4 Kilometre long potash trains running west every 10 minutes are getting pretty damn boring :haha:. Me & my buddies agree that the General Electric Trash that is lugging it over Kicking horse is even more more unworthy.:yuck: Constantly having failures then spurting flames out the stack is something to see though :haha:


This post is useless without pictures

[albertantraingeek]

This post is useless without pictures

:haha: Okay, how about some video then? Not one of the 4 km long ones, but you get the point! :slob: Same with those locomotives, Railfans across North America agree that they are Trash.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C9jWNXGWCKM&feature=BFa&list=UU8rcFvt8UgwCp899mQ-aemQ&lf=plcp

As fas as blowing turbochargers go...

http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.php?id=90600

Pic is not mine, video is.

[Innersoul1]

Cool Pic and Vid

Lots of work over the weekend on the WLRT!

Question for you LRT/train guys out there. I noticed just East of Sarcee that there is a ton of rail laid out in super long lengths along the track bed. It looks like it is going to be pushed into place over the Sarcee bridge and up towards Sirocco station. Do you guys have any idea how is continuous rail is laid? Is is literally just pulled along before being tied down?

[albertantraingeek]

Cool Pic and Vid

Lots of work over the weekend on the WLRT!

Question for you LRT/train guys out there. I noticed just East of Sarcee that there is a ton of rail laid out in super long lengths along the track bed. It looks like it is going to be pushed into place over the Sarcee bridge and up towards Sirocco station. Do you guys have any idea how is continuous rail is laid? Is is literally just pulled along before being tied down?

Thank you for the positive feedback!

As far as CWR goes, this may answer SOME of your questions, but I'm afraid I'm not very educated on the topic

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WzgzShHzbjA

[mersar]

I'm heading out to do a photo tour of the WLRT this afternoon, I drove past yesterday and am in awe at the progress.

[Innersoul1]

I'm heading out to do a photo tour of the WLRT this afternoon, I drove past yesterday and am in awe at the progress.

I look forward to seeing your photos!

I too am awed by the progress the have been making, things are really cruising along. The contruction has really picked up with this great weather we have been having.

The copper cladding on the Sunalta station looks so awesome. Although in the evening, it has a sersious "death-ray" of it's own.

[Bigtime]

Actually, although a train is a train, the 4 Kilometre long potash trains running west every 10 minutes are getting pretty damn boring :haha:.

So the potash trains are the equivalent of the Westjet 737's here in YYC.

[albertantraingeek]

So the potash trains are the equivalent of the Westjet 737's here in YYC.

:haha: The trash locos hauling them are boring! But yes, the sea of grey Canpotex hoppers nothing worth noting. :slob:

[Rise_of_the_West]

Got a good long look at the west LRT today (traffic was unusally horrible thanks to Bow being one lane westbound):

- Roof at Shagnappi is about half done from what i could tell.
- Tunnel sections are covered and earth was being compacted today.
-17th ave overpass is coming along, looke like they are ready to start paving on/offramps on the east side. I think paving is gonna happen this weekend.
- Plenty of rails stockpiled on the track bed leading up to the bridge. I assume pre-welded for install further up the hill.

Im curious how they will be paving the west ramps without disrupting traffic on 17th (if it can be done). I assume they will finish the east ramps, open 17th onto the overpass then work on the west. That may mean losing some access to sarcee for a while though.

[eggbert]

Drove downtown yesterday and couldn't help but notice the progress on the underside of the Sunalta station. The copper is looking amazing!

[koval95]

does anyone have photo updates? :rolleyes:

[mersar]

Still haven't processed my photos from last week, but heres some I took today at Sunalta

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6173/6157232440_0ec4d95249_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/33872918@N06/6157232440/)
WestLRT Sunalta Station (http://www.flickr.com/photos/33872918@N06/6157232440/) by Jason R. Reid (http://www.flickr.com/people/33872918@N06/), on Flickr

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6184/6156689715_bd3bd1afb4_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/33872918@N06/6156689715/)
WestLRT Sunalta Station (http://www.flickr.com/photos/33872918@N06/6156689715/) by Jason R. Reid (http://www.flickr.com/people/33872918@N06/), on Flickr

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6062/6157231216_8a5d21272e_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/33872918@N06/6157231216/)
WestLRT Sunalta Station (http://www.flickr.com/photos/33872918@N06/6157231216/) by Jason R. Reid (http://www.flickr.com/people/33872918@N06/), on Flickr

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6068/6156688083_90cfee0dac_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/33872918@N06/6156688083/)
WestLRT Sunalta Station (http://www.flickr.com/photos/33872918@N06/6156688083/) by Jason R. Reid (http://www.flickr.com/people/33872918@N06/), on Flickr

[Ayreonaut]

That's looking great! Thanks for posting.

[Reesonov]

Looks great. One would hope that the land surrounding the station will be put to a better use in the next few years.

[albertantraingeek]

Beautiful shots! That copper roof is looking awesome! :tup:

[frinkprof]

Video on how the Westbrook Tunnel is made. Pretty thorough:

50rENybGDMc

[5seconds]

The City is really planning on the removal of Westbrook mall?

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a400/jessesalus/westbrook1.jpg

[frinkprof]

The City is really planning on the removal of Westbrook mall?

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a400/jessesalus/westbrook1.jpgThat is the decision of the owners of Westbrook Mall. What is being planned is how the infrastructure in the area is to be built and the land parceled and zoned.