The Ontario government has issued a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for the Hamilton Light Rail Transit (LRT) project, a step toward construction of the 14-kilometre transit line.
“Our government is making real progress on our historic plan to build and expand transit across Ontario,” said Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria. “The Hamilton LRT will help reduce gridlock, connect families and workers to affordable public transit, and drive economic growth for everyone.”
RFQ to select contractors for civil works
The RFQ calls on contractors to submit qualifications to lead the construction of civil works along the LRT route, including roadways, bridges, sidewalks, and utility relocations. The province will evaluate submissions and invite shortlisted candidates to submit proposals for the work. This marks a significant milestone in the project’s development.
The LRT route will connect key locations in Hamilton, including McMaster University, City Hall, Tim Hortons Field, Eastgate Square, and the downtown core. The line will also link into the region’s expanding GO Transit system.
The LRT project is expected to bring significant economic benefits to Hamilton and Hamilton Mayor Andrea Horwath says the RFQ is a critical step toward modernizing the city’s transit infrastructure.
“Today’s announcement is part of a historic investment in public transit that will bring long-lasting benefits to Hamilton’s residents and businesses,” she said.
The project is also expected to create thousands of construction jobs.
“LiUNA has been a strong champion of the proposed Hamilton Light Rail Transit (LRT) from day one and today we are one step closer to getting shovels in the ground and making it a reality,” said Joseph Mancinelli, International Vice President and Canadian Director, LiUNA. “As one of Ontario’s fastest growing cities, Hamilton requires resilient and reliable infrastructure to keep up with demand. Investing in viable transit infrastructure will continue to spur economic development and address critical infrastructure and transit needs throughout the city while creating thousands of jobs for the members of LIUNA and skilled trade workers.
“We look forward to continuing working with the Ontario government to finally break ground and build the Hamilton LRT.”
The completed LRT will link commuters to high-speed rail services, including the expanded GO Transit network. It is expected to improve transit connections for thousands of workers and students while reducing congestion on local roads.
In May 2021, Ontario and the federal government committed up to $3.4 billion in funding to support the LRT’s construction. Each level of government is contributing up to $1.7 billion to fund the project.
The Hamilton LRT will span 14 kilometres and serve up to 50,000 daily riders.
The LRT will connect key locations, including McMaster University, City Hall, and Eastgate Square.
The project is part of a broader $3.4 billion investment in transit infrastructure, with Ontario and the federal government each contributing up to $1.7 billion.