In a significant move towards bolstering public transit infrastructure, the Ontario government has launched a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for the design and construction of seven stations along the eagerly anticipated Eglinton Crosstown West Extension (ECWE). This initiative marks a pivotal milestone in the province’s ambitious plan to deliver efficient and reliable transit options to communities in Etobicoke and Mississauga.
Under the guidance of Premier Ford, the government is prioritizing the extension project, which aims to bring thousands of commuters within walking distance of public transit hubs. Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation, hailed the ECWE as a “game changer,” emphasizing its potential to connect residents from Renforth to Mount Dennis, Kennedy, and beyond.
The scope of the Stations, Rail, and Systems (SRS) contract encompasses the comprehensive design and construction of all seven stations along the ECWE, in addition to integrating the line with the existing Eglinton Crosstown LRT at Mount Dennis Station. Tunnelling efforts for the line commenced in 2022, laying the groundwork for the extension’s expansion.
Minister Sarkaria makes an announcement about improving transportation. https://t.co/GdBnSW0dFi
— Ontario Ministry of Transportation (@ONtransport) March 25, 2024
Minister of Housing, Infrastructure, and Communities, Sean Fraser, underscored the government’s commitment to enhancing citizens’ lives through strategic infrastructure investments. He emphasized that the development of public transportation infrastructure in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) will significantly improve network accessibility, safety, and efficiency, ultimately contributing to a better quality of life for residents.
Once operational, the ECWE will extend the Eglinton Crosstown LRT by 9.2 kilometers further west, establishing a seamless rapid transit connection from Toronto’s east end through the city center and into Mississauga. With an estimated 69,700 daily ridership, the extension promises to streamline travel for commuters, connecting them with various regional transit operators, including UP Express, GO Transit, TTC, and MiWay bus services. This integrated network is projected to save commuters up to 24 minutes on a single trip, enhancing overall efficiency and convenience.
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow expressed enthusiasm for the project, anticipating vibrant station activity and renewed exploration of Mount Dennis and neighboring communities.
The Ontario government’s commitment to public transit expansion is evident in its substantial investment of over $70 billion over the next decade. The ECWE joins a roster of transformative projects, including the Ontario Line, Scarborough Subway Extension, and Yonge North Subway Extension, constituting the largest subway expansion in Canadian history.
As the RFQ process unfolds, stakeholders eagerly anticipate the realization of the ECWE, poised to revolutionize transit connectivity and accessibility in the GTA.
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