Ontario Line Project Faces Delays and Potential Disruptions

Toronto’s highly anticipated Ontario Line subway project is experiencing delays, with the opening now projected for the early 2030s – potentially later than the initial 2031 target. This news comes with a warning that a major expressway, the Don Valley Parkway (DVP), could face closures to facilitate bridge construction. Metrolinx CEO Michael Lindsay revealed these updates during a media availability on Wednesday.

Revised Timeline and Lessons Learned

According to Lindsay, civil infrastructure work is currently trending towards completion in the early 2030s. Following this, a rigorous testing phase will commence. The original plan, announced in 2019, aimed for a 2027 opening. However, Metrolinx and the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) are applying lessons learned from the recent, significantly delayed openings of the Eglinton Crosstown LRT and the Finch West LRT.

“Consistent with the lessons learned on the Eglinton Crosstown… we’re trying right now to think about how we front load systems integration considerations to reduce that testing and conditioning time,” Lindsay explained. The Eglinton Crosstown opened six years behind schedule, while the Finch West LRT experienced early operational issues related to cold weather performance.

Construction Progress and Potential DVP Closures

Construction is underway on the elevated portion of the Ontario Line, which will traverse downtown Toronto from Exhibition Place to the former Science Centre. Work has also begun on four new stations. The 15-kilometre line will feature 15 stations and is designed to accommodate nearly 400,000 daily trips.

A significant challenge lies in the construction of three bridges over the Don River, adjacent to the DVP. When questioned about potential disruptions, Lindsay acknowledged that closures of the DVP are “potentially” necessary. “These are formidable works,” he stated, comparing the scale to rebuilding the Bloor Viaduct three times. Metrolinx assures they will collaborate with partners to minimize disruptions.

Political Reactions and Concerns

The news has sparked criticism from opposition leaders. Interim Liberal Leader John Fraser criticized the province’s project management skills, stating, “They’re good about talking about it, they’re not good about actually doing the activity.” NDP Leader Marit Stiles expressed fears of a “boondoggle” with escalating costs and an indefinite completion date, reiterating her call for a public inquiry into Metrolinx.

Both Stiles and Fraser emphasized the need for careful planning to avoid the traffic chaos experienced during the Gardiner Expressway rehabilitation, which required a $73 million investment to expedite completion. They warned that a prolonged DVP closure could cripple city traffic.

What Does This Mean for Torontonians?

The delays and potential disruptions to a major artery like the DVP raise concerns for Toronto commuters. The Ontario Line, while promising much-needed transit capacity, is facing challenges that echo past infrastructure projects in the city. The success of this project hinges on effective planning, proactive problem-solving, and transparent communication with the public.

For more information on Ontario’s infrastructure projects, visit the Infrastructure Ontario website.