Work starts GO Transit Allandale station

The start of construction for the new Allandale Waterfront GO Station in Barrie, Ontario, Canada. has begun. The new stop will allow GO Transit to extend train service further into downtown Barrie, improving access to GO rail service and downtown Barrie and increasing ridership on the Barrie line. "Our government's investment in Allandale Station will increase public transit use, reduce gridlock and improve air quality," said Member of Parliament Patrick Brown. "This new station will create jobs, increase economic growth and improve service for commuters in Barrie." The new GO stop, just south of Barrie's waterfront area, will include a 12-car side rail platform with heated shelters and a mini-platform. There will also be an enclosed pedestrian tunnel with ramps, a six-bay bus platform with shelter and parking with a Kiss 'n' Ride drop-off lane. Bicycle shelters and approximately 150 parking spaces for cars and scooters will be added, along with landscaping, fencing and an electrical and communications building. The new stop will be located on the north side of the GO Barrie line on the existing north track, between Essa Road and Bayview Avenue. Construction is scheduled to be complete by the end of this year. "Ridership growth in this region has exceeded our expectations and we are pleased to provide a second, downtown access to GO service," said GO Transit Presidnet Gary McNeil. "Over the last five years and through partnerships between our municipal, provincial and federal governments, we were able to restore and expand GO service in Barrie." The total cost of this project is $3.5 million.