Metrolinx begins construction of Toronto transit hub

Ontario's Metrolinx has started construction on the East Harbor Transit Hub, a new interchange planned for Toronto's Riverdale neighborhood that will ease congestion and strengthen transit options. 

Crews are installing the structural foundation for a new station and tracks, including concrete caissons and retaining walls, Metrolinx officials said in a press release last week.

Preliminary work to widen the Eastern Avenue bridge to support more rail track began in 2023. Once finished, the bridge will hold six tracks, four for GO Transit commuter trains and two for the Ontario Line subway.

The East Harbor Transit Hub, to be located east of the Don Valley Parkway and south of Eastern Avenue, will shorten travel times by diverting traffic from Union Station, Metrolinx officials said. This will reduce crowding by as much as 14%.

Trains are expected to arrive at the station as frequently as every five minutes during rush hour. It's anticipated 100,000 daily riders will use the new station.

The East Harbor Transit Hub is part of the GO Expansion program, a joint initiative of the governments of Canada, Ontario and Toronto, and Metrolinx.