The case for improving transit infrasture in Toronto

Transit in Toronto is incredibly important. Without effective rapid transit this city would grind to a halt as the road system would be completely choked with traffic. Traffic is already famously bad in Toronto. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) estimated that in 2009, $3.3 billion dollars was lost as a result of traffic jams – not to mention the negative effect on quality of life as commuters face longer commuting times to and from work. And as the city of Toronto continues to grow, the traffic woes facing the city will only worsen if no new investments are made in transit infrastructure.

New transit lines are being constructed. This post will examine high quality resources that examine the Eglinton-Scarborough Crosstown and the Toronto-York Spadina Subway Extention.

Eglinton-Scarborough Crosstown

The Eglington-Scarborough Crosstown, or the Crosstown for short, is the name of a new light rail transit line running from Kennedy Station in the east to Jane and Eglinton in the westend. Although, not technically a subway, a significant section of the line will run underground – from Laird Drive to Keele Street.

A map of the proposed new LRT stations on the Elginton-Scarborough Crosstown line.

For more information about the line check out this promotional video posted below or have a look at the Elginton-Scarborough Crosstown's official site.

Toronto-York Spadina Subway Extension

If you are curious about learning more about the progress, construction and stations related to the Toronto -York Spadina subway extentsion there is a wealth of information available online. The TTC has a wonderful website with a vast amount of information regarding the construction as well as the future of the TTC's lines and stations.

Future map of TTC subway lines after the completion of the extention.

Construction Maps and Updates

For up-to-date informtion on the progress of the project check the construction notices. If you're more of a visual person you can also view the progress on a number of maps available here.

Stations

Once the subway extension is complete there will be total of six new stations; Sheppard West, Finch West, York University, Steeles West, Highway 407 and Vaughan Metreopolitian Centre.

Artist's conception of the new York University Station – one of six new station set for completion in 2015.

Bonus: A little fun

Test your knowledge of the TTC and take the subway quiz! I scored 23/30. Share yours in the comments below!