The arrival of the Eglinton Crosstown Light Rail Transit (LRT) marks a significant milestone for Toronto, yet it also serves as a cautionary tale about the city’s struggles with transit development. After 15 years of construction, the 19-kilometre line, featuring 25 stops, commenced operations on Sunday, fulfilling the hopes of many residents like Joseph Virgilio, a 15-year-old who expressed that the project feels like “a late Christmas present.” However, the lengthy delays and the substantial cost overruns—now estimated at nearly CAD 13 billion, over 40% higher than initial projections—highlight the complexities involved in modernizing urban transport.
A Complicated Journey to Completion
The Eglinton Crosstown LRT, which connects Mount Dennis in the northwest to Kennedy Station in Scarborough, has faced numerous challenges since its inception. Initially slated for completion in 2020, the project was plagued by construction defects and signal issues, leading to multiple delays. Despite these setbacks, the line was operational on its first day, albeit with trains running at approximately seven-minute intervals and experiencing minor hiccups. This was a stark contrast to the disastrous launch of the Finch Line 6 in December, a reminder that the Eglinton line’s eventual opening, while celebrated, is underpinned by a history of turmoil.
The new LRT line’s design is a visual triumph, featuring large windows, skylights, and a sleek aesthetic that has been well-received by the public. Designed by a collaboration of architects, including Montreal’s Daoust Lestage Lizette Stecker and Toronto’s gh3*, the stations incorporate public art and user-friendly wayfinding. Beth Kapusta, a former design lead at Metrolinx, articulated the intent behind the design, stating that the concept revolved around “simple, light-filled boxes,” creating an atmosphere of clarity and ease for transit users.
Concerns Over Transparency and Costs
As the system begins operations, concerns persist regarding its management and operational challenges. Marvin Allred, president of the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 113, called for greater transparency about the issues plaguing the project. “We’re operating with our eyes closed,” he remarked, emphasising the public’s right to understand the complexities involved in the LRT’s development. The intricate public-private partnership with Crosslinx, the consortium responsible for construction, has led to years of internal conflict, with significant legal fees incurred to address disputes.
Ontario’s Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria acknowledged the lessons learned from the Eglinton project, indicating a commitment to improving future transit initiatives. However, experts like Marco Chitti from NYU’s Marron Institute stress the urgency of addressing the rising costs of transit construction, noting that the Eglinton project’s expenses are nearly double the norm in Europe. This raises questions about Toronto’s capacity to build an efficient and expansive transit system moving forward.
The Broader Vision for Transit and Community
The Eglinton LRT embodies a dual purpose: it functions as both a subway-like corridor for long-distance travel and a surface line catering to local journeys. This complex nature reflects its origins in the ambitious Transit City plan, envisioned by former mayor David Miller, which sought to enhance public transportation and revamp urban spaces. The goal was to transform Eglinton into a vibrant, tree-lined avenue, echoing successful European models of urban design.
Yet, the reality diverges significantly from this vision. The sprawling nature of Eglinton, particularly in its outer reaches, resembles a high-speed arterial road more than a pedestrian-friendly boulevard. Recent research from the University of Toronto highlighted that development along the line has been concentrated around the central intersection of Yonge and Eglinton, rather than fostering a diverse urban environment throughout the corridor.
Despite these challenges, the optimism among riders on the opening day was palpable. Young Virgilio reflected on the potential for the LRT to unify communities and enhance connectivity across the city. “I think it could help unify the community and connect people to different parts of the city,” he expressed, echoing the aspirations that have long accompanied the promise of enhanced transit.
Why it Matters
The Eglinton Crosstown LRT’s opening is not just a moment of celebration for Toronto; it serves as a crucial lesson in the challenges of modern urban planning. As cities across the globe grapple with the need for sustainable and efficient public transport, Toronto’s experience underscores the importance of transparency, effective management, and community engagement in transit development. The road ahead may be fraught with obstacles, but the collective hope among Torontonians for a more connected and equitable city remains a powerful motivator for change.
