Metrolinx officials have announced that operational control of the Finch West Light Rail Transit (LRT) system, which has not yet officially opened, has been successfully transferred to the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC). This transfer signifies a crucial development in bringing the long-awaited transit line into full operation.
On Monday, the provincial transportation agency confirmed that the TTC transit control center located at Hillcrest Yard took over responsibility for the operations over the weekend. Leading up to this transfer, there had been a progressive increase in training for TTC drivers, while Mosaic Transit Group, the private consortium tasked with constructing and maintaining the LRT line, continued their work.
During a press conference held on Friday, Michael Lindsay, the president and CEO of Metrolinx, hinted at the impending transfer of operational responsibility. He noted that the Finch West LRT has a simpler operational framework compared to other ongoing projects like the Eglinton LRT. Lindsay remarked, “I think it’s fair to say, love that system, but it’s a little bit more simplified than Eglinton.”
He elaborated on the features of the Finch West LRT, which includes a dedicated right-of-way track, established signaling technology, and more straightforward vehicle designs. This efficiency suggests that preparations are in place for conducting a revenue service demonstration in the near future. Lindsay anticipates that this demonstration could commence within weeks, aiming for completion by the end of September 2023.
While there is optimism regarding the timeline, officials have not provided a specific projected opening date. Lindsay stressed that the initiation of a 30-day revenue service demonstration is essential, as it will demonstrate the system’s operational capabilities and pave the way for the official rollout and service ramp-up. However, he also included a note of caution regarding the timeline, stating, “I’ll add my standard caveat, which is that that is all subject to what we see in respect to the performance of the system.”
Lindsay reassured stakeholders that the vehicles have been operating without encountering maintenance and reliability issues that were seen with the Eglinton Crosstown LRT line. This positive operational status is critical as the Finch West LRT project moves forward, especially in light of recent uncertainties stemming from a lawsuit filed in 2024 regarding a contract dispute associated with the project.
Concerns regarding maintenance surfaced recently when several cracked glass walls on station shelters were reported along the Finch West corridor, prompting additional scrutiny and questions about the workmanship and durability of the infrastructure. The Finch West LRT project consists of 18 stops primarily running along Finch Avenue West, connecting the Finch West subway station at Keele Street to the Humber College station at Highway 27.
Construction on the Finch West LRT began in 2019, with an initial timeline aiming for completion by the end of 2023. The tendering process for the project had commenced in 2015 under the previous Liberal government, and a contract was signed shortly before the Progressive Conservative Party took power in 2018.
