February 28, 2023

Statement by Councillors Malik and Moise on the 501 Queen St. Metrolinx Diversion

Our downtown communities deserve reliable public transit. Recently, it was reported that the TTC’s 501 Queen St streetcar would be replaced by shuttle buses for 20 months due to disruptions created by the planned Ontario Line construction work by Metrolinx. Our offices have been working jointly with City staff to minimize disruptions to service.

Working with City staff in Engineering and Construction Services and Transit Infrastructure, we are supporting solutions that shorten the duration of shuttle bus service. A report going to the General Government Committee on March 3 authorizes a new delivery model that is expected to save at least 10 months off the TTC’s reported timeframe, allowing diverted streetcar service to begin no later than March 2024.

Last week, alongside Councillor Paula Fletcher (Toronto-Danforth, Ward 14), we created the Ontario Line Subcommittee to set clear recommendations from the City to Metrolinx and the Provincial government on how to build and implement this important transit infrastructure. We will continue to push for the best results for our downtown communities through this construction process.

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Update March 3:

Today the General Government Committee recommended the new streetcar track delivery model that will save at least 10 months off the use of buses on the 501 Queen route. City Council will give final approval at the end of March.

Contact:

Abra Rissi

16479932045

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