GTA Construction Report staff writer
Infrastructure Ontario (IO) and Metrolinx have issued a request for qualifications (RFQ) for interested parties to design, build, finance and maintain the $1.2 billion Finch West Light Rail Transit (LRT) project.
The new LRT line, located along Finch Avenue West in the city’s northwest end, will integrate with the city’s existing transit system.
The project includes:
- 11 kilometres of new dedicated rapid transit between Humber College and the new Finch West Subway Station on the Toronto-York Spadina Subway Extension;
- 18 surface stops and a below-grade interchange station to connect with the new Finch West Subway Station; and
- A maintenance and storage facility for the light rail vehicles The RFQ is the first step in the procurement process to select a team to deliver the project.
Submissions will be evaluated to prequalify project teams with the relevant design and construction experience, and the capacity to finance and deliver a project of this size and complexity. Teams who qualify will be invited to respond to a request for proposals.
“The Finch West LRT line is another important part of the region’s transit network and identified in Metrolinx’s regional transportation plan,” said Bruce McCuaig, president and CEO, Metrolinx. “As an extension of the existing TTC network, and with connections to GO Transit bus services and existing Mississauga and Brampton transit, the Finch West LRT line will bring fast, reliable and convenient service to the communities that need it most. This is another example of the progress Metrolinx is making to transform the way the region moves by building a fast, convenient and integrated transit network across the GTHA.”
The government agencies say the project will help transform Finch Avenue West’s priority neighbourhood into a vibrant community, accessible to motorists, transit riders, cyclists and pedestrians.
The project is being delivered using IO’s Alternative Financing and Procurement model, which transfers appropriate risks associated with design, construction, financing and maintenance of the project to the private sector. The Finch West LRT line will remain publicly owned.
