Toronto, the capital of Ontario, is one of Canada’s major cities; with a large and growing population of over 6 million people in the Greater Toronto area.
The public transit system is the core of the popular city with its vast attractions and never ending capacity. Those who depend upon public transit demand reliable, fast, and affordable service from the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC).
With approximately 1.4 million rides per day, the TTC accommodates over 80% of commuters compared to the GO Transit Regional Commute system.
Toronto alone covers 630.21 km2 (243.33 sq mi) square feet not to mention the single tier municipality Greater Toronto Area (GTA). TTC has maintained a major commitment as it caters to billions of travelers that consist of seniors, disabled persons, adults, students and those looking to go to and from work among other important places.
TTC has provided over 90 years of significant service since 1921. Many who live in the GTA have access to buses, street cars, sub vehicles and counting, to a certain extent. To further the destination as needed the LRT is also offered to bridge the gap.
Upgrades to subway vehicles and extensions in distance to further how far the fleet may carry passengers has been a concern of the current Toronto Mayor John Tory, and a main vocal point of previous Mayor Rob Ford.
The Advisory Committee on Accessible Transit (ACAT) provides ongoing support or participation in the decision making that affects convenient access to sustainable service in Toronto. Those who are active or who volunteer report to the Board of the Toronto Transit Commission.
Multiple proposed avenues to broaden the subway line which consist of lines 1-4 have been top priority.
Line 1 of the subway commute system is coded yellow on the display map. It is the core line that runs Southbound from Finch station going Northbound from Union station.
This main line has a new addition, the Toronto-York Spadina extension. It recently became accessible on Sunday, December 17, 2017. Thus far it has been a custom fit as it engages tourists, students, and other people in the local community to be in sync with the northern part of the GTA. Likely students who travel the upgrade to line 1 of the subway route are York University bound or Seneca@York students.
The proposal came for the Spadina tracks, leading past the Bloor-Danforth line 2, which is labelled green on the subway display map, prior to 2007. The plan was funded by the Federal government of Ontario, Toronto and York Region.
The cost of the jointly funded project was over $400 million dollars in construction claims and other associated expenses. Finally the extension runs from Downsview Station to the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre located near Highway 7.
Spadina subway dates back decades. Billions have had great experiences via the sub rail; finally people are thrilled as they anticipate many safe travels due to its new extension.
Alternate options when commuting within the GTA include the GO Transit Regional Buses. However, GO transit is not always the best option when faced with the bold Canadian weather.
Billy Russel a longtime commuter has shed some light on his journey. He says, “I’ve traveled to York University campus from Durham Region during the winter season on the GO buses, but the transfers and waiting during stops for pickup is pretty inconvenient; but if I’m coming from Hamilton to Toronto I would rather jump on the GO train no doubt about it! Now that we’re on strike I can spend more time in the Toronto area. What’s great is the new Spadina line carries me straight to my University.”
Joann Miller a worker in the metropolitan area added, “I think the new addition is genius and I’m thankful that I can have a smooth travel without any stress.”
With such a great impact of relief for commuters it was obvious that other parts of the subway line demanded attention or improvement where expansion is concerned. Needless to say the Finch line was among the arena of neglected importance.
Today a planned project for the Finch West Line 6 LRT is in the making. It’s a light rail much like the current Scarborough RT line 3 which is coded as blue on the subway display map. The new Finch West LRT is to include 18 stops going westbound from Finch West station finishing at Humber College
North Campus, located near Martin Grove Road.
In Northwest Toronto LRT line 6 will be a major advantage providing necessary access to daily activities. Whether it be for great avenues with respects to business or pleasure, the newly anticipated feature will be a special addition.
With an expected grand opening in year 2022 many may agree that Metrolinx is not far behind in implementing the high standards led by example by the dominant Toronto Transit Commission.
By bridging the gap, Metrolinx is committed to bring York Region, Peel Region, and the City of Toronto together! Many travelers will be lined up with Presto cards pre-loaded ready to enter the electronic gates. If everything goes according to plan, in four years the vital momentum will have withstood sustainability for this rapidly growing movement!
Thursday, March 22, 2018
Kimberly Louis for S@Y News
Be the first to comment