In a move aimed at enhancing transit accessibility and connectivity in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), the Ontario government has initiated the procurement process for the design and construction of seven new stations along the Eglinton Crosstown West Extension (ECWE). This step marks a significant stride in the province’s commitment to delivering efficient and reliable rapid transit options to communities in Etobicoke and Mississauga.
Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria emphasized the transformative impact of the ECWE, which will bring fast and convenient transit closer to commuters, connecting areas like Renforth to Mount Dennis, Kennedy, and beyond. With the addition of seven new stations, the extension is poised to revolutionize commuting patterns and improve access to employment hubs within the GTA.
The Stations, Rail, and Systems (SRS) contract encompasses the design and construction of all seven stations along the ECWE, along with the integration of the line into the existing Eglinton Crosstown LRT at Mount Dennis Station. Tunnelling work for the line commenced in 2022, symbolizing the tangible progress toward the extension’s completion.
Housing, Infrastructure, and Communities Minister Sean Fraser underscored the broader societal benefits of investing in transit infrastructure, citing improvements in accessibility, safety, and efficiency. The development of robust public transportation networks aligns with the government’s vision of fostering inclusive and sustainable communities across the region.
Once operational, the ECWE will extend the Eglinton Crosstown LRT by 9.2 kilometers westward, facilitating seamless travel from Toronto’s east end to Mississauga. The extension is projected to accommodate approximately 69,700 daily riders, offering connections to various regional transit services such as UP Express, GO Transit, TTC, and MiWay bus services.
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow hailed the progress on the ECWE as a testament to the city’s commitment to delivering reliable transit options. The addition of new stations is expected to invigorate local communities and stimulate economic activity in areas like Mount Dennis and its surroundings.
Ontario’s substantial investment of over $70 billion in public transit infrastructure underscores its dedication to transforming transit networks across the province. The ECWE project, alongside other initiatives like the Ontario Line, Scarborough Subway Extension, and Yonge North Subway Extension, exemplifies the government’s commitment to modernizing transit infrastructure and improving mobility for residents.
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Notable stakeholders, including Members of Parliament and local representatives, expressed their support for the ECWE project, emphasizing its significance in enhancing transit accessibility and reducing congestion in the GTA. With procurement underway and tunnelling progressing steadily, the vision of a seamless transit network connecting Toronto, Mississauga, and Etobicoke draws closer to fruition.
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