TTC advances ATC signal upgrades

The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) yesterday announced its upgraded automatic train control (ATC) signaling system is operational between the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre and Rosedale stations on the Line 1 Yonge–University subway system.

On Nov. 21, TTC crews completed the signal upgrades on a stretch between the Queen and Rosedale stations. The previous phase of the ATC project, between the St. Patrick and Queen stations, was completed in February.

Portions of the TTC's signal system date back to the 1950s when the subway first opened. This milestone in ATC installation means fewer delays associated with the older fixed-block signaling system along the majority of Line 1 and improved rail service, TTC officials said in a press release.

The upgrade also opens access to an additional turn-back location at College Station, which provides more flexibility in the event of an operational issue on the line, TTC officials said.

The new ATC system required 168 beacons, 12 trackside radios, 40 axle counters and 16 signals. To fully test and commission the system for revenue service, the work required two weekend closures and one single day closure.