Lessons Reflected in the Eglinton Crosstown LRT Experience
The Eglinton Crosstown LRT, a pivotal transit project in Toronto, has opened its doors to riders, but it carries with it a wealth of lessons that the city must address. As Line 5 begins operations, experts emphasize the importance of reflecting on the challenges faced throughout its development, which began in 2011 and was marred by significant delays.
Key Details of the Eglinton Crosstown LRT
- Project Cost: $13 billion
- Initial Launch Date: Originally set for 2020
- Construction Start: 2011
- Delays: Over 260 construction deficiencies, legal disputes, COVID-19 disruptions, software, and signalling issues
- Budget Overrun: Approximately $1 billion
Public-Private Partnership Problems
The development of the Eglinton Crosstown was executed through a public-private partnership. This involved Metrolinx contracting Crosslinx Transit Solutions in July 2015 to manage the project under a fixed-price agreement. However, this model has come under scrutiny.
Experts, including Matti Siemiatycki from the University of Toronto, highlighted that the overconfidence in this partnership led to misconceptions about risk management. The project faced numerous disputes, including significant issues with defective materials and delayed testing protocols.
The Impact on Communities
As the Eglinton Crosstown faced repeated setbacks, local communities experienced profound disruptions. Construction work resulted in noise and dust, affecting small businesses and resident life along the transit corridor. Steven Farber, also from the University of Toronto, stressed that future transit projects must prioritize compensation for those adversely impacted.
First Impressions and Future Prospects
Line 5, which stretches from Mount Dennis to Kennedy Station, features 25 stops, primarily underground. The operational performance within its first year will be crucial in determining public perception and usage. Experts are concerned that if the service does not meet expectations for speed and reliability, it could hurt public confidence in future transit endeavors.
Gradual Rollout and Community Sentiment
The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) has confirmed that the Crosstown will open in phases, starting February 8, with free service on the first day. TTC CEO Mandeep Lali noted that this phased approach would allow for monitoring the initial performance and implementing necessary upgrades over time.
Councilor Josh Matlow, whose ward encompasses parts of Eglinton West, acknowledged the project’s issues, including significant financial impacts on local businesses and ongoing delays. He emphasized that while the trains are critical, understanding the project’s failures is equally important for future planning.
A Path Forward
Matti Siemiatycki reiterated the need for a guiding principle focused on public and user benefit in every infrastructure project. Learning from the Eglinton Crosstown’s challenges is essential for Toronto to avoid repeating past mistakes and to foster a reliable transit system that truly serves its communities.
