The Ontario government announced on April 27, 2023, that the search for expert teams interested in building the Yonge North Subway Extension tunnels has begun with the release of a request for qualifications (RFQ). This important milestone brings the project one step closer to getting shovels in the ground on major construction.

The advance tunnelling RFQ offers interested companies an opportunity to be included in the bidding process by asking them to present their qualifications and construction expertise.

The package of work includes designing the tunnels, supplying the tunnel boring machines, and building the launch shaft and extraction shaft that will be used to lower the tunnel boring machines into the ground and bring them to the surface again.

The RFQ also includes design and construction of the walls that will support the underground stations and emergency exit buildings and relocating existing utilities along the route.

Through detailed plans and careful construction, the successful tunnelling team will dig out the tunnel for the subway extension that will bring TTC Line 1 service to Vaughan, Markham and Richmond Hill.

The announcement follows news of important progress on the approximately eight-kilometre extension. Work has started at Finch Station on early upgrades to accommodate future subway service.

Metrolinx and Infrastructure Ontario will review the submissions made through the advance tunneling RFQ and will create a shortlist of qualified teams that will be invited to bid on the tunnelling contract through a request for proposals.

To learn more about the Yonge North Subway Extension and sign up to receive updates about this project, click here.