Metrolinx has officially released the layouts for the four new planned subway stations that will be a part of the Yonge North Subway Extension.
The extension will extend to the TTC’s Yonge-University Line 1 about an eight-kilometre, four-stop extension of Line 1 subway service from Finch Station to Richmond Hill with the four new stops.
In 2019, Metrolinx first announced the project as part of their 2019 Provincial Budget.
Metrolinx at the time assumed the responsibility for the Yonge North Subway Extension.
“It became evident that the original project was approximately $3.7 billion over the $5.6 billion budget that did not fit with the future long-term growth objectives of the region,” President and CEO of Metrolinx Phil Verster said in an official letter released to the public.
Verster said with the addition of the new four stops, the extension will help ease traffic congestion and that commuters will have better access to transit.
The subway extension has many residents living close to the area in question voicing concerns and frustrations of it affecting their neighbourhood property values.
“We understand that homeowners may wonder if their property values will be negatively affected if the subway runs underneath their property. We strongly believe it will not, given our substantial noise and vibrations mitigations.” Verster said in the letter.
Residents and officials living in the York Region believe that the infrastructure will not be able to support the growing population as this project will bring in more many.
Verster assured the public that Metrolinx has taken the comments from the community and leaders of the board of their concerns.
“In the coming months, we will also offer an immersive, interactive noise and vibration simulation that will let you hear for yourself that it will sound like when a subway train passes below homes,” he said.
Metrolinx hosted a virtual open house on Feb. 17 sharing findings of the updated environmental studies for the Yonge North Subway Extension. The open house was designed to answer questions for those who have concerns.
The Yonge North Subway Extension is part of Metrolinx plans across Toronto and the GTA including the Finch LRT, the Eglinton Crosstown, and the Scarborough Subway extension.
Verster spoke about a few of the new Line 1 stations.
“Steeles, Bridge and High-Tech stations will significantly improve access to frequent rapid transit, providing easy connections to local and regional travel options that will help people move around the GTA and beyond,” Verster said
“Clark Station will offer riders seamless connections to the planned extension of the Viva Orange bus rapid transit line, which serves communities along Highway 7.”
Moving forward, Metrolink is thrilled of how fair the project has gone and are working for a better future for residents and businesses.
Metrolinx said commuters will have to wait a while longer as the completion of the construction for the Yonge North Subway Extension is expected to finish around 2029 to 2030.