TTC To Upgrade Streetcar Power System Through the Fall
Written by Jennifer McLawhorn, Managing Editor
Courtesy of the TTC
TORONTO – The TTC streetcar power system will receive upgrades starting September 3rd.
On Queens Quay and Fleet St. along three kilometers, the TTC will begin a project to replace and reconfigure the overhead wires. Additionally, the project includes upgrading the underground power systems along the corridor.
The TTC reports this project will take place over the course of four months in several stages. When the project is finished early next year, the streetcars along this area will “use an optimized and improved pantograph overhead contact system that is fully compatible with the TTC’s modern and growing fleet, enhancing the reliability of service along the waterfront.”
The first stage will begin September 3rd and run through early October, spanning the segment between Harbourfront Tunnel and Spadina Avenue. The second stage will follow right after and focus on upgrading the segment between Spadina Avenue and Bathurst St. Then, in November through early 2025, a third stage will focus on overhead work west of Bathurst St. and along Fleet Street. During these stages, the TTC has provided detailed information involving alternative modes of transportation for its passengers.
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow said, “As a city, we are investing over $200 million to expand the TTC’s fleet of fully accessibile low-floor streetcars. . . The work being done along Queens Quay and Fleet Street is integral to ensuring that the right infrastructure is in place to run these streetcars, and to deliver a safe and reliable TTC service for many years to come.”
TTC CEO Rick Leary said, “Thanks to the configuration of the Queens Quay streetcar right-of-way, eastbound replacement buses on part of the route can operate there, maintaining more consistent travel times. . . I want to acknowledge and thank the hardworking TTC crews and engineers who will be working day and night to ensure this project is completed quickly and with minimal disruption. We certainly appreciate the understanding and patience of our customers during this period of necessary upgrades.”
