Eglinton Crosstown LRT: A Long-Awaited Opening Approaches Amid Concerns
The Eglinton Crosstown Light Rail Transit (LRT) line, a long-anticipated transit solution for Toronto, is finally set to open on February 8, 2024. This announcement follows a tumultuous journey for the project, originally slated for completion in 2020, but which has faced numerous hurdles, including delays, legal disputes, and safety concerns. Reports from reliable sources suggest that this date is now firmly on the horizon, and stakeholders are cautiously optimistic.
City Councillor Josh Matlow, who has been vocal about the project’s challenges, took to social media to express positivity about the impending launch. Alongside him, Premier Doug Ford also indicated earlier this month that he hoped for an early opening. However, the celebration is tempered by the stark reality that this essential transit line has taken over a decade to complete, with an alarming billion-dollar cost overrun. During the construction phase, numerous businesses were forced to close their doors, leaving an indelible mark on the community.
Brad Bradford, Councillor for Ward 19, shared his perspective on the subject during a recent interview. “This project has seen significant delays and, unfortunately, a billion-dollar cost overrun,” he remarked. “We desperately need more transit in Toronto, and it’s time for the Eglinton Crosstown to serve its purpose.” He emphasized the challenges faced by residents and businesses alike during the prolonged construction, reflecting on the deep impact felt in Midtown Toronto.
One of Bradford’s chief concerns revolves around the recent troubles encountered with the Finch West LRT. The Finch line, which launched a few months ago, faced operational issues that prompted disbelief amongst the public. Specifically, signal priorities were not in place at launch, and the new LRT was operating at slower speeds than the buses it replaced. “Torontonians will have little patience for a repeat of that scenario here,” Bradford cautioned, urging the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) to be fully prepared for the Crosstown’s opening.
Calls for a public inquiry into the tumultuous history of the Eglinton Crosstown project have emerged as a topic of conversation among council members. Bradford acknowledged that examining the lessons learned from this venture would be prudent, given its rocky past. From the initial groundbreaking in 2011 to the anticipated opening in 2024, many critical takeaways could help inform the execution of future transit projects in the city.
“Every time we add a new transit line, it’s a positive step forward,” Bradford stated. “Yet, we must also recognize the reality of what’s unfolded with the Eglinton Crosstown." He expressed hope that despite its troubled history, the line will ultimately provide a vital connection to Line 1 of the subway—something that is desperately needed in the growing urban landscape.
As the February 8 opening date approaches, the TTC claims to have completed extensive tests along the line. Toronto residents are eager for this critical infrastructure to finally serve its intended purpose. Bradford optimistically noted that much of the Crosstown’s service runs underground, which might mitigate some of the seasonal operational challenges seen with the above-ground Finch West LRT.
However, ongoing concerns about coordination within the city’s transportation systems persist. For instance, recent snowstorms revealed inefficiencies in snow removal that impacted transit services, raising alarms about the potential for similar disruptions when the Crosstown opens. “We need to ensure that our infrastructure can withstand the realities of living in a winter city,” Bradford asserted.
In conclusion, while the Eglinton Crosstown LRT’s projected opening on February 8 gives reason for optimism, it is critical to remain vigilant about operational readiness and coordination among the transit services. Torontonians have faced enough frustration and disruption; it is time for a smooth transition into a future where this essential transit line meets the city’s pressing mobility needs. The clock is ticking, and with it, the promise of a brighter, more connected Toronto awaits.
