Ontario, Metrolinx issue RFQ for West Corridor Expansion

Written by Kyra Senese, Managing Editor
image description
File photo

Infrastructure Ontario (IO) and Metrolinx have issued a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for interested parties to build and finance the Lakeshore East - West Corridor Expansion project.  

 

Officials said infrastructure upgrades are needed to accommodate the planned expansion of GO Transit service along the Lakeshore East line.

“We are moving forward with this next step in procurement as we improve and modernize the entire GO rail network,” said Kathryn McGarry, Minister of Transportation. “This means more convenient travel options in the future, making it as easy as possible for people to use transit.”

The scope of work includes:

  • Adding a fourth track on the south side between the Don River Bridge and Gerrard Street shifting to the north side between Pape Avenue and Scarborough GO Station
  • Widening three bridges
  • Widening works under the Birchmount Road Bridge
  • New station building and platform changes at Danforth GO Station
  • Retaining walls
  • Three culvert extensions

 

Officials noted the project is part of the province’s GO Regional Express Rail (RER) program. GO RER is intended to provide faster and more frequent service on the GO Transit Rail network with electrification on core segments, including the Union Pearson Express.

“Implementing Regional Express Rail is crucial to improving transit service for people in the GTHA,” said Bob Chiarelli, Minister of Infrastructure. “Through the largest infrastructure investment in Ontario’s history, we are strengthening communities and connecting people to family, friends and job opportunities.”

Major infrastructure updates must be carried out, officials said, in order to bring high-level service to communities throughout the region, including: modifying GO stations, improving rail crossings, building required electrification systems and adding locomotives and train control systems.

The RFQ is the first step in the procurement process to select a team to deliver the project. IO and Metrolinx plan to evaluate submissions to prequalify project teams with the relevant construction experience and financial capacity for this project.

Qualifying teams will be invited to respond to a Request for Proposals in fall 2018, officials said. Interested companies must register here to download the RFQ.

Tags: