News Metrolinx partners with ONxpress to transform GO service Brian, January 25, 2024January 25, 2024 Metrolinx has partnered with ONxpress for GO Transit’s overhaul, aiming for enhanced operations from 2025. This includes frequent, faster train services and new technologies in the expanding GTHA region, as part of the $11-billion GO Expansion initiative to address congestion and growing travel demands. Maintenance and operational improvements are expected for several stations to benefit the over 12 million inhabitants anticipated by 2041. Continue Reading
News Scarborough busway to cost $12 million more, not open until 2026 Brian, January 24, 2024January 24, 2024 The Scarborough Rapid Transit conversion to a busway, now costing $67.9 million, is delayed until late 2026. The funds could buy 50 articulated buses, potentially enhancing the transit network. Recommendations include adjusting bus frequencies, revamping routes like the 25 and 925 for better service, and adding bus lanes for long-term transit improvements across the city, in anticipation of the Scarborough subway extension. Higher ridership and fare revenue from these changes could support future transit expansion. Continue Reading
News Hazel McCallion line to be extended to Brampton GO station Brian, January 23, 2024January 23, 2024 The Ford government is extending the Hazel McCallion LRT into downtown Mississauga and Brampton, reversing previous cuts. Criticized for transit project delays, the move is seen as a “game changer” by local officials. Brampton considers a hybrid LRT extension to the GO station despite rising tunnel costs to $2.8 billion over the $933 million above-ground option. This expansion aims to boost connectivity, increase ridership, and improve transit efficiency across the region. Continue Reading
BC Transit services in Metro Vancouver impacted by labor dispute Brian, January 22, 2024January 22, 2024 In Vancouver, 180 workers from CUPE Local 4500 are striking, leading to a two-day shutdown of certain TransLink services, with a full resumption expected Wednesday. While alternative transit services remain operational, the union stands firm on its wage increase demands, rejecting the employer’s latest offer and considering further picketing actions. Continue Reading
BC Translink bus operator issues 72 hour strike notice for supervisor and other non bus driving positions Brian, January 3, 2024January 8, 2024 The union representing 180+ transit workers in Metro Vancouver has issued a 72-hour strike notice amid negotiations for better working conditions and compensation. The strike, starting with an overtime ban, will impact all operations in the Coast Mountain system. The union hopes for fair negotiations to avoid service disruptions. The last collective agreement expired in December 2022. Continue Reading
News O-Train line 1 in Ottawa had a partial shutdown on January 2 Brian, January 2, 2024January 2, 2024 There was a 5-hour partial shutdown on the O-Train in Ottawa due to concrete debris found in the tunnel at St-Laurent Station. This adds to a series of issues since its 2019 launch, including derailments, door problems, weather damage, and service outages. Today’s shutdown reflects ongoing challenges with the O-Train. Continue Reading
News Hamilton LRT progress as of December 4, 2023 Brian, December 4, 2023December 4, 2023 Metrolinx hosted a virtual event about the LRT’s progress, discussing project updates, design changes, and the 2020 Building Transit Faster Act. Hamilton city plans to convert Main St to a two-way road, leading to a redesigned Main Street Bridge over the 403 for LRT. Initial construction steps and property acquisitions have begun, causing some concerns about displacements. However, new residential developments along the LRT route are also proposed. Continue Reading
BC Proposal for up to 7 towers near Langley Skytrain station Brian, December 1, 2023January 2, 2024 Global news BC reported proposals to build seven highrises near the future Willowbrook SkyTrain station in Langley, sparking concerns about rapid city growth. The towers, which could house approximately 2500 new residents, may stress the existing road and school systems. Township Mayor Eric Woodward stated that a new Willowbrook Community Plan will be developed to accommodate growth, considering both the proposed towers and the SkyTrain. However, it will be several years before any proposals are executed. Continue Reading
BC Langley Skytrain extension announces 8 stations names Brian, December 1, 2023December 4, 2023 The Surrey Langley SkyTrain extension project in Vancouver moves closer to construction with the announcement of the names of eight stations. Supported by Canada’s contributed funding of $1.3 billion, the 16-km expansion will connect Metro Vancouver’s residents with work, school, and recreation sites more efficiently upon completion. This extension aims to boost housing development, enhance public transit, lower emissions, and revitalize several communities. Construction is expected to begin in 2024. Continue Reading