Metrolinx has informed 680 NewsRadio that they "aspire" to commence the 30-day revenue service demonstration for the Eglinton Crosstown Light Rail Transit (LRT) system within this week. This demonstration period is viewed as the final hurdle before the long-anticipated transit line can officially open.
Earlier this month, the transit agency along with provincial transportation officials expressed hopes that the Eglinton Crosstown LRT, which has been under construction and commissioning for 14 years, would finally open its doors to the public in October. However, the exact date for the operational launch remains uncertain.
The revenue demonstration service is crucial as it is intended to verify that the LRT system is functioning as designed and is ready to safely accommodate passengers. Despite the eagerness to launch, there have been some identified issues that raise concerns regarding operational readiness.
During a statement made on September 5, Metrolinx CEO Michael Lindsay reported that some intermittent problems with the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, as well as communications systems, have been discovered. Additionally, he mentioned that there is premature wear observed on the braking systems, which was not anticipated to occur at this stage. Crews are currently engaged in efforts to pinpoint the underlying causes of these issues.
As of June, operational control of the extensive 19-kilometer, 25-station Eglinton Crosstown line was transferred to the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC). The TTC has indicated that while the decision regarding the opening ultimately rests with Metrolinx, their staff members are heavily involved in collaborative efforts with the agency to ensure readiness for the anticipated launch.
The construction of the Eglinton Crosstown LRT commenced in 2011 under the previous Ontario Liberal government and a different management structure at Metrolinx. Originally slated for completion in 2020, various legal challenges, construction complications, testing issues, and delays associated with the COVID-19 pandemic have caused multiple postponements of the opening date.
As the planned demonstration service period approaches, stakeholders remain cautiously optimistic but are also alert to the potential hurdles that might still hinder the timely launch of this significant transit line.
