Ontario Construction News staff writer
VIA Rail held a groundbreaking ceremony July 10, to launch the construction and modernization of its Toronto Maintenance Centre (TMC).
Work will be completed by Buttcon Limited, a construction firm based in Woodbridge and will create up to 475 local jobs in the trade and construction industries between now and completion in 2026.
The scope of the work includes:
- demolition of a portion of the existing structure and the construction of state-of-the-art facilities
- construction of a new addition, removal, and replacement of tracks
- addition of a stand-alone wheel lathe facility (to maintain wheels and ensure smooth operation on the tracks) and critical infrastructure improvements throughout the maintenance yard
“Buttcon is excited to embark on this amazing project,” said Peter Di Gaetano, President and CEO of Buttcon Limited. “This moment signifies the culmination of our collaborative partnership with VIA Rail, a testament to the unwavering dedication and ingenuity of every team member.
“We eagerly anticipate surpassing industry standards and transcending conventional construction practices, ensuring the seamless execution of the Toronto Maintenance Centre Modernization Project.”
The maintenance facility is a important pillar in VIA Rail’s large-scale modernization which aims to transform the way Canadians travel from reservation to destination.
“This modernized maintenance centre will support us in our mission to provide our passengers the most enjoyable travel experience and better connect Canadian communities,” said Mario Péloquin, VIA Rail’s president and chief executive officer. “It will also allow our employees to work with the most modern equipment and will provide them the necessary tools to maintain the new fleet according to VIA Rail’s standards of excellence.”
An innovative vehicle equipment measurement system (VEMS) at the stie will allow VIA Rail to improve proactive maintenance with an early warning detection system, ensuring any issues are dealt with swiftly, safely, and without prolonged downtime.
“This pivotal step in our modernization process will allow VIA Rail to maintain the 32 trains of the new fleet that will offer an unparalleled customer experience for passengers travelling in the Québec City – Windsor corridor,” said Bruno Cacciola, chief business transformation officer.