{"id":7253,"date":"2024-11-12T18:15:14","date_gmt":"2024-11-12T18:15:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/aecom.com\/en-ca\/projects\/transforming-transit-in-toronto\/"},"modified":"2026-06-09T18:32:04","modified_gmt":"2026-06-09T18:32:04","slug":"transforming-transit-in-toronto","status":"publish","type":"project","link":"https:\/\/aecom.com\/en-ca\/projects\/transforming-transit-in-toronto\/","title":{"rendered":"Transforming transit in Toronto"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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\n The Finch West Light Rail Transit (FWLRT) project brings nearly 11 km (6.8 mi) of new, accessible and reliable transit to northwest Toronto, Ontario, Canada. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

The system\u00a0comprises\u00a016\u00a0stops\u00a0and\u00a0two\u00a0stations, as well as a Maintenance and Storage Facility for the light rail vehicles (LRVs). 91Ó°ÊÓ provided technical advisory services to the owner \u2014 Metrolinx \u2014 during the planning,\u00a0procurement\u00a0and construction\u00a0phases of the project. We deployed subject matter experts across a myriad of project areas, including environmental, traffic, LRT systems, construction,\u00a0commissioning, and claims. The\u00a0initial\u00a0contract value for the project\u00a0was\u00a0$2.5 billion.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Major community benefits<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Northwest Toronto is one of the most heavily used surface transit corridors in the GTHA (Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area). Historically, buses and cars have been the main transit options for residents.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The FWLRT was designed with passenger accessibility and connectivity in mind. This system features LRVs, platforms and stations that are fully accessible to wheelchairs and strollers. Passengers can connect seamlessly to the region’s other transportation options, including Line 1 of the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) subway network, TTC Buses, GO, MiWay, York Region and Brampton transit services. As part of the effort to improve local streetscapes and cycling infrastructure, a 1.5 km (.93 mi) multi-use path was developed from Weston Road to Norfinch Drive \u2014 enabling safe and convenient access for pedestrians and cyclists. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Delivering environmental sustainability and project transparency<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Environmental responsibility was a key priority across the entire project. Light rail provides a clean alternative to cars and buses, lowering greenhouse gas emissions and improving local air quality. LRVs are also more energy-efficient because they run on electric power, which can be derived from renewable sources \u2014 further reducing the system\u2019s carbon footprint. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Our team led the environmental assessment process for the Maintenance and Storage Facility (MSF), ensuring that the facility\u2019s carbon footprint is as limited as possible. As a result, the MSF earned a LEED Silver certification for its environmental friendliness. Green infrastructure, such as green roofs and permeable pavements, was included to manage stormwater runoff and reduce the urban heat island effect. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In addition to designing environmentally sustainable solutions, we strive to maintain transparency with our clients throughout each project life cycle. To underscore this commitment, we used Unmanned Aircraft Systems to develop 3D models, videos, and photos documenting the entire transit corridor to provide monthly progress reports. These reports provided clarity and made sure that all project teams were aligned on the next steps. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Solutions for stakeholders and structures alike<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

From the project\u2019s inception, we facilitated extensive community consultations and stakeholder engagement processes to verify that the project addressed the needs and concerns of residents. This effort fostered a sense of ownership and collaboration between 91Ó°ÊÓ, Metrolinx and the neighbouring community. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

As a complex, urban infrastructure project, the FWLRT\u2019s development did include challenges. To accommodate the new LRT line, the bridge that carries a major highway over Finch Avenue had to be rehabilitated. We used a rapid bridge replacement method, essentially completing the work over one weekend to minimize disruptions to the public. We have contributed significantly as technical advisors, engaging in design and work methodology reviews while providing 24\/7 compliance oversight to ensure that construction was completed safely. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

A greener and more connected Toronto<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Moving forward, our work has positioned Toronto as a model of sustainable urban development. This system will reduce the need for gas-powered vehicles on the road, making it safer for pedestrians and cyclists to move and breathe freely. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This project showcases our ability to engage local stakeholders and officials to achieve solutions that benefit transportation systems and the communities that they serve economically, operationally, and environmentally. With the delivery of the Finch West LRT, we are helping Toronto achieve greater connectivity while creating sustainable transportation infrastructure for the future. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Discover the people bringing infrastructure to life in our communities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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People Spotlight:<\/h4>\n

Meet Lamiaa Eldakhly<\/h2>\n

Lamiaa is a Director of systems interface and integration from our Transit and Rail business.<\/p>\n

\n Read more<\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
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