HAMILTON — The Ontario government has released a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the first major construction package on the Hamilton Light Rail Transit (LRT), marking a significant step forward in the long-awaited transit project.
The RFP, issued May 21, 2025, invites four prequalified teams to bid on civil and utility works along the 14-kilometre corridor, which include utility relocations, roads, sidewalks, bridges, and traffic control signals. This phase paves the way for full-scale construction of the LRT, which will connect McMaster University in the west to Eastgate Square in the east, with 17 stops in total.
“Today, we’re one step closer to getting shovels in the ground on this critical transit project that will connect thousands of residents in Hamilton to good jobs and housing,” said Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria. “Under Premier Ford’s leadership, our government is delivering the largest transit expansion in North America to tackle gridlock, keep workers and families moving, and create good-paying jobs.”
Great news Hamilton! We’re one step closer to getting shovels in the ground on the Hamilton LRT.
This is part of our plan to reduce gridlock and connect people to more jobs and housing. Under @Fordnation, we will continue to #ProtectOntario and build for the future.
Learn… pic.twitter.com/CS6YoUxnJD
— Monica Ciriello (@MCirielloMPP) May 21, 2025
With joint federal and provincial investments totaling up to $3.4 billion, the Hamilton LRT is set to transform transit access in one of Ontario’s fastest-growing cities. Once operational, it will support 50,000 daily riders, ease congestion, and link seamlessly with the Hamilton Street Railway and GO Transit systems.
Mayor Andrea Horwath called the announcement a “major step toward delivering the modern, reliable transit system our city deserves,” noting the LRT’s integration with the city’s redesigned bus network.
Ontario’s broader transportation plan includes a $70 billion investment in public transit over the next decade, including expanded GO service and infrastructure upgrades in the Greater Golden Horseshoe.
“The LRT will not only support our community,” said Hamilton East–Stoney Creek MPP Neil Lumsden, “but will help us build a stronger, more sustainable economy as we work to protect our city for generations to come.”
Five early works projects have already been completed, with four more currently underway. This includes key upgrades to utilities like water mains and telecommunications infrastructure along the planned LRT route.
Metrolinx interim CEO Michael Lindsay praised the collaborative approach: “We’re excited to continue working with the federal and provincial governments as well as the City of Hamilton to deliver this important project.”
Once complete, the Hamilton LRT will connect residents to key destinations like City Hall, Hamilton Stadium, and the downtown core—while creating thousands of construction and long-term jobs in the process.
Follow @GTAWeeklyNews on social media for more local news and updates. #GTAToday #GTAWeekly
Leave a Reply