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    1. Technology
    2. Passenger Info
    3. Signage and Displays

    TransLink completes modernization of 1980s-era SkyTrain technology

    March 30, 2021
    Brand new, real-time information screens and speakers were installed across the system.
    Related To: TransLink
    TransLink
    Trans Link 6063388e5ed5f

    Aging speakers and signs have been replaced by TransLink throughout the SkyTrain system by installing 280 new customer information screens and more than 1,400 new speakers at Expo and Millennium Line SkyTrain stations.

    “Communication and information is a vital part of a customer’s experience on transit and this program has modernized our SkyTrain communication technology,” said Gigi Chen-Kuo, interim CEO, TransLink. “We’ve replaced the 1980s style LED signs and aging speakers with state-of the art information screens and brand-new speakers all over the Expo and Millennium Lines. These upgrades have modernized our system and mean that our customers returning to transit will be welcomed back with much clearer communication technology.”

    These upgrades have modernized communication on the SkyTrain system and improved TransLink’s ability to communicate with customers. Expo and Millennium Line customers will notice:

    Real-time digital screens: Outdated signs have been replaced by new next train screens on platforms and station entrances to let customers know when their next train is expected to arrive. General information screens have been installed to simplify customer decision making with live service information and updates.

    Better sound in stations and on trains: New speakers on trains and at stations for customers to more clearly hear service alerts and notifications.

    Improved safety and security at stations: More than 1,200 new CCTV cameras installed along the Expo and Millennium Lines. These cameras can be monitored live by SkyTrain staff to modify service levels throughout the day and are a valuable resource for transit police investigations.

    These upgrades have been ongoing since 2018 as part of the SkyTrain Customer Communications Upgrades Program, and is a major milestone to deliver enhanced customer experiences through the Customer Experience Action Plan.

    This C$79-million (US$62.7-million) program is part of a larger C$92.4 million (US$73.3 million) Rapid Transit Systems Rehabilitation and Maintenance Project paid for under the Public Transit Infrastructure Fund (PTIF), which is funded by the government of Canada (50 percent), the government of British Columbia (33 percent) and TransLink (17 percent).

    “With new speakers, screens, and security cameras, TransLink users will now be safer and better informed while commuting. I’m pleased that these improvements are funded in part by our federal government through the Rapid Transit Systems Rehabilitation and Maintenance Project. Canada’s infrastructure plan invests in thousands of projects, creates jobs across the country and builds cleaner, more inclusive communities,” said the Honorable Carla Qualtrough, Member of Parliament for Delta, on behalf of the Honorable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities.