Metrolinx will host two open house events to share progress updates on the Barrie GO Line.

The open houses will focus on the Barrie Double Track Enabling Works project, located in Toronto, which includes modifications and upgrades that will allow for the installation of a second set of tracks to support future all-day, two-way GO Train service on the Barrie Line.

The project spans from approximately King Street West to Finch Avenue.

GO Expansion progress

These Barrie Line upgrades, as well as the wider GO rail network are part of the GO Expansion program.

GO Expansion will bring faster, more frequent train service to the region by adding more trains, more stations, more options, and more connections to support population growth, alleviate traffic congestion and give customers more time to do the things they love.

In fact, there are over $11 billion of GO Expansion projects are already completed or in construction across the region.

On the Barrie Line, new electric GO Trains will also offer faster service in future. For most journeys this means, regardless of traffic conditions, taking the GO Train will be a more compelling choice than the car.

Two-way, all-day service, seven days a week will give customers the flexibility to plan trips easily because the next train will always be arriving soon.

Project details

Before a second track can be installed, preparatory work must first be completed. The Barrie Double Track Enabling Works project includes:

• Grading of the corridor for the second track
• Removing existing vegetation
• Relocating underground / overhead utilities
• Installing noise barrier wall posts and panels
• Installing security fencing
• Storm sewer / culvert installation and replanting vegetation where required
• Sheppard Bridge expansion (new pedestrian bridge and new rail bridge)
• New platform at Downsview Station (west side)

Trees removed within the rail corridor will be replaced through a compensation program. New will trees being planted outside of the project area but still within the City of Toronto.

How to get involved

The open houses will focus on progress from St. Clair Avenue West to Eglinton Avenue West (Zone 3) and provide a general update on all other project zones.

Residents and customers are encouraged to participate.

In-person event

Date: November 28, 2023  

Time:  7:00 pm-8:30 pm

Location: Silverthorn Community School, 300 Kane Ave, Toronto

Virtual event

The online session will share the same information as the in-person event.

Date: November 27 – December 1, 2023

Time: 24/7

Event website: metrolinx.com/Barrievirtual2023

What to expect during construction

Residents and businesses located along the corridor (St. Clair Avenue West to Eglinton Avenue West) may experience some short-term noise and vibration and possibly dust. If property access is required to complete any aspects of the work, residents will be notified directly.

Advance notice will be provided for any construction to nearby residents including traffic impacts or work required at night. Crews will be working as quickly as possible to minimize disruptions to nearby residents.

For regular updates, follow @GOExpansion on X (formerly Twitter) and subscribe to the Toronto West newsletter at metrolinx.com/subscribe. Construction notices are posted under Corridor Work on the Barrie Line GO Expansion webpage.

The Toronto West community engagement team can also be reached at TorontoWest@metrolinx.com or 416-202-6911.