New LCD displays with next train arrival times coming to SkyTrain platforms

Jul 16 2019, 4:06 am

The future of communication on SkyTrain’s Expo Line and Millennium Line is extremely clear.

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In addition to the installation of new LED real-time next train signs on platforms, TransLink is also installing new LCD general information displays right in the very middle of each platform, replacing the ageing 1980s-era red text signs.

The first of these LCD displays went live at Joyce-Collingwood Station last week. They display messaging and advertising, with the bottom of the screen always dedicated for information on the next train arrival time and destination.

SkyTrain LCD signs platform Joyce-Collingwood Station

New LCD displays at SkyTrain’s Joyce-Collingwood Station with real-time next train arrival information. (Kenneth Chan / Daily Hive)

Granville Station SkyTrain Expo Line

SkyTrain Expo Line’s Granville Station platform. These ageing red text signs are being replaced by LCD displays at the same platform location. (Kenneth Chan / Daily Hive)

These LCD displays are not to be confused for the new LED signs, which display the arrival times and destinations for the next three trains and a lower line scrolling text space for system condition information. There will be two LED signs for each platform direction.

The first of the LED signs were installed earlier this year.

TransLink is gradually rolling out these new LCD displays and LED signs to all 33 Expo Line and Millennium Line stations over the course of the coming year. When fully complete, every platform direction will have three double-sided displays and signs that provide next train information.

SkyTrain signage

New real-time next train countdown signage at SkyTrain’s Edmonds Station. (TransLink)

Even more LCD displays are also being installed outside of the fare paid zones of the Expo Line and Millennium Line stations.

These displays provide the same real-time next train arrival time and destination information before passengers enter the station. During service disruptions, these same LCD displays will also provide information on the delays.

SkyTrain signage

New real-time next train countdown signage at SkyTrain’s Edmonds Station. (TransLink)

Other passenger communications systems upgrades coming to the two SkyTrain lines operated by TransLink subsidiary BC Rapid Transit Company include one thousand new speakers along the Millennium Line, 320 new speakers inside stations and at designated entrances, and upgrades to the ageing speakers at Expo Line stations.

More CCTV cameras will also be installed; 1,200 new CCTV platform cameras will improve safety and security, and another 265 new cameras will be used to monitor guideway areas at stations to cut down the response times to track intrusion alarms.

The Canada Line, privately operated by ProTransBC, is not part of these upgrades.

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