Excavation Begins at Exhibition Station

Exciting developments are underway in Toronto as the provincial government has officially launched excavation for the Ontario Line subway tunnels at Exhibition Station. The construction of a crucial launch shaft is also now in full swing, marking a significant milestone in one of the most ambitious transit projects in the city’s history.

Overview of the Ontario Line

Originally unveiled in 2019 by the Progressive Conservative government, the Ontario Line stretches nearly 16 kilometers and is set to feature 15 stops. It builds on the city’s initial Relief Line proposal, promising to reshape public transportation in Toronto and surrounding areas.

Integration with Existing Transit Routes

Once completed, the Ontario Line will integrate seamlessly with an astounding 40 other transit routes, including GO train lines and TTC subway and streetcar stations. The line will also connect with a new east-west light rail line currently under construction, enhancing connectivity across the region.

Project Cost and Excavation Details

Metrolinx has estimated the total cost of this monumental project at around $11 billion. The excavation at Exhibition Station will include the creation of a 16-meter-deep launch shaft, which will serve as the starting point for two powerful tunnel-boring machines tasked with digging approximately six kilometers to the Don Yard. Once this foundational work is completed, the launch shaft will be repurposed into a tunnel portal, allowing Ontario Line trains to seamlessly transition from above to below ground.

Government Support and Future Ridership

Minister of International Development Ahmed Hussen expressed enthusiasm about the progress: 'Work is progressing, and today’s excavation is another step toward affordable, reliable, and quick public transit for Torontonians.' These words echo the government's commitment to easing transit woes in a city that faces chronic congestion.

Transformative Impact on Commuting

Projections indicate that the Ontario Line will cater to an impressive daily ridership of up to 388,000 people when it is scheduled to open in 2031. This substantial increase in transit capacity is expected to alleviate crowding on existing transit lines and roadways, transforming the commuting experience for countless Torontonians.

Critical Momentum for Public Transit

Phil Vestor, CEO of Metrolinx, added, 'With the station, bridge, and above-ground track construction now underway across the route, we are gaining critical momentum on a project that will revolutionize public transit in our region.'

Stay Tuned!

Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting transit development that is set to change the face of transportation in Toronto!