Special to GTA Construction News
Infrastructure Ontario and Metrolinx have launched a search for companies to design and build the five new stations included in the Yonge North Subway Extension.
A request for qualifications (RFQ) has been issued for the stations, rail, and systems contract, which covers detailed design and construction of the stations, rail and signal systems, emergency exit buildings, a train storage facility, utility relocation work, and modifications at Finch Station to connect the extension to the existing TTC Line 1 subway service.
Interested companies can submit qualifications through merx.com. Metrolinx and Infrastructure Ontario will shortlist firms for a request for proposals. With tunnelling work already underway, preparations have begun for the excavation of the launch shaft for the future tunnel boring machines.
The extension will carry TTC Line 1 approximately eight kilometres farther north from Finch Station into York Region, with new stations in Toronto, Vaughan, Markham, and Richmond Hill. Three stations – Steeles, Clark, and Royal Orchard – will be built underground, while bridge and high tech stations will be at surface level.
Once complete, the project is expected to transform commuting in York Region and North York, making it faster and easier for residents to travel between the region and downtown Toronto while reducing traffic congestion and pollution. The extension is projected to serve more than 94,100 daily boardings, shorten travel times by up to 22 minutes, and bring more than 26,000 additional residents and 22,900 employees within walking distance of a station.
The extension will also connect to multiple transit options, including Richmond Hill GO train service, Highway 407 GO buses, York Region Viva Highway 7 and Yonge Street rapid transit, future Highway 407 Transitway and Steeles Avenue rapid transit, and local York Region and TTC bus services. It is expected to reduce morning rush-hour vehicle travel by more than 7,700 km and cut annual greenhouse gas emissions by over 4,800 tonnes.
The stations will feature spacious concourses, escalators, elevators, and access to natural light.
