Building bridges for the future of transit

Major progress is underway in transforming the region’s transit and cityscape. Starting in Toronto’s eastern end, workers reached a critical checkpoint in the widening of the Eastern Avenue Bridge.?

A skilled crew used special equipment to complete the concrete deck pour for the first half of the bridge, which will set the stage for a future GO station as part of the East Harbour Transit Hub. ?

In the Don Valley, construction has begun on two new bridges for the northern segment of the Ontario Line, which will carry commuters across the Don Valley, through Thorncliffe Park and Flemingdon Park.??

The balanced cantilever design will be used on both bridges, keeping the footprint during construction and beyond smaller. As a bonus, they’ll be more aesthetically pleasing too. In fact, the intent is for them to look like “ribbons crossing the valley.”??

Demolition, for progress

The world’s greatest magician couldn’t make 8,100 tonnes of rubble disappear in a weekend, but our talented crews can. Weighing as much as 15 jumbo jets, the Progress Avenue bridge in Scarborough was dismantled over the Labour Day weekend thanks to meticulously planned and coordinated efforts – and the use of some specialized heavy equipment.?

Part of the new clearing will be used to construct Scarborough Centre Station, part of the Scarborough Subway Extension project, expanding the TTC’s Line 2 subway. And don’t worry, the rubble isn't going to waste. It will be processed and recycled for use in future construction projects.??

Light rail lookout?

With vehicle testing ongoing for Eglinton Crosstown LRT and Finch West LRT, we are working to ensure those who live, work and commute nearby stay safe, so we’ve put together a handy LRT Safety guide with key tips for navigating new light rail transit.?

Light rail will transform the region for everyone, and new modes of operation may be needed as cityscapes are changed to accommodate LRVs on the road. From modified traffic patterns, new crossing zones and more, we’re putting safety first as we work to better connect communities and the region.?

Safety with a smile?

Building and expanding transit goes beyond constructing bridges, tunnelling through the ground and laying track. It also includes the dedicated frontline team that Metrolinx entrusts to help keep all aspects of operations running smoothly. One of our newest additions to that team is the Station Safety Ambassador. ?

Meet Ani. She was born in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and conquered no shortage of adversity, including experiencing homelessness for several years. But through hard work, determination and her own sheer will, she overcame. Ani was chosen to be one of the very first Station Safety Ambassadors. Ani likens it to being the eyes of a GO Station, offering help, support and communication when needed. Her presence is so valued, customers seek her out and ask for her by name. Thanks for all that you do, Ani!?

And thank you for reading the Metrolinx Newsletter!?

Keep an eye out for more transit updates on the Metrolinx LinkedIn and Instagram accounts, or on Metrolinx.com.?