Major construction complete on Eglinton Crosstown; software and quality assurance issues outstanding
Ontario Construction News staff writer
Major construction work is completed on the Eglinton Crosstown LRT in Toronto, but software defects in the signalling and train control system is one of several issues delaying the project, Metrolinx CEO Phil Verster said in an update this week.
Also this week, the Ontario government issued a Request for Qualifications for the design and construction of seven stations along the Eglinton Crosstown West Extension (ECWE).
“The system integration tests, which have always been the most critical consideration for us, which really is the critical path, was 15 per cent complete when I saw you last at the media technical meeting in December,” Verster said at a press conference to announce the RFQ..”It’s now just over 50 per cent complete, which is a lot of progress in the three months that we’ve had.
“What concerns me most though is the software defects in the signalling and train control system and the rectification of those defects by CTS and Alstom.
testing had begun on the sixth version of the software and the seventh version is scheduled to be complete in June.
“The signalling and train control system is really the nerve centre of moving trains punctually and on time, as well as safely, and so it’s really critical that that system works well,” he said.
Once the software system is stabilized, training will begin for 20 TTC staff, who will then train 90 operators.
Another major outstanding issue is obtaining construction certificates for the various parts of the project.
The opening date for the much-delayed 19-kilometre Crosstown line has been pushed back multiple times, but Metrolinx stopped giving new target dates after missing the last announced target in the fall.
Ontario Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria announced at the RFQ.
“This contract will cover the design and construction of all seven stations along the line, including architectural, structural, mechanical and electrical work, fitting of the tunnels and elevated guideway with track and signals, installing fare collection systems and much more,” he said.
Contracts being awarded will also cover the modifications needed to Mount Dennis Station to connect the Eglinton Crosstown LRT to the extension. The 9.2 kilometre-project will run from the future Mount Dennis LRT station to Renforth Drive and will operate mainly underground, extending rapid transit into Etobicoke and Mississauga.
“Our government knows transit keeps people moving and is a key driver of economic growth, connecting people not only to jobs, but also to friends and family, medical appointments, school and so much more,” Sarkaria said. “And as we build Ontario for the future, we’re using every lever at our disposal to get priority transfer projects as quickly as possible. As Toronto’s population continues to grow, we cannot afford not to continue to invest in critical infrastructure that the future generations will rely on.”
Once complete, the Eglinton West extension will connect with other regional transit operators, including UP Express, GO Transit, TTC, and MiWay bus services, and will handle an estimated 69,700 rides per day.