The City of Toronto, the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), and Metrolinx have been busy this month co-hosting a series of public consultations spread across several dates between June 13-25. The aim of these Public Information Sessions has been to update and inform the public about the ongoing and future plans of the region's transit initiatives, including the implementation of John Tory's SmartTrack plan, the long-awaited Relief Line, the Yonge Relief Network Study, and the Scarborough Subway Extension. 

SmartTrack proposed routes, with others both existing and proposed, image courtesy of the City of Toronto

Beginning with SmartTrack, the report features a broad collection of data, maps, and other information pertinent to the options available in regards to route alignment and project feasibility. Perhaps of most interest to readers are integration with GO RER plans, the proposed routes with connections to the airport, and the controversial Eglinton alignment partly through lands that were sold off to developers under the Ford Administration. Feedback on this study can be sent to the City at TransitTO@toronto.ca.

SmartTrack, proposed Pearson Airport connection, image courtesy of the City of Toronto

SmartTrack, proposed Eglinton alignment, image courtesy of the City of Toronto

Second, plans for the (Downtown) Relief Line are highlighted in this report, a website dedicated to the new line, which outlines and contextualizes the City's eventual plans for its much-needed implementation. Highlights include an informative FAQ section, that seeks to clarify many of the key aspects of the project, such as, its corridor options, integration into the wider TTC system, and potential connections to Tory's SmartTrack and/or GO RER stations. You can provide feedback on the corridor options here.

Relief Line Project, Primary Assessment Study Area, image courtesy of the City of Toronto

Next, an in-depth study from Metrolinx, is included, one which highlights the same Relief Line, but from a more technical standpoint, offering data related to issues of line capacity and the future of the entire network, both within the City of Toronto proper, and the extended GTHA. Embedded in this same report is a further study from Metrolinx on the ins and outs of the region's plans for a Regional Express Rail (GO RER) network, which will further help relieve transit capacity issues, and compliment the existing regional GO system. You can provide feedback on this study via yongereliefnetworkstudy@metrolinx.com.

GO Train Map, image courtesy of Metrolinx

Last but not least, and likely the most controversial piece of planned transit infrastructure; the much-debated Scarborough Subway Expansion (SSE). Featured extensively in the news, and here on UrbanToronto, the SSE is featured at length in a report, which includes its proposed routes, stations, and feasibility. Pertinent to those who have been keeping up on this file, the FAQ section will provide some interesting reading. You can give feedback in these reports here.

Scarborough Subway Expansion, Study Area, image courtesy Line 2 Subway: Scarborough of Toronto

All in all, the reports offer readers both an in-depth look at the project proposals, and an inside peek at ways in which they have and continue to be presented to the public. Those interested are encouraged to take a look and to submit feedback. Transit TO will be accepting public feedback until July 3rd on all of these projects, and those interested can provide them with their concerns, comments, and questions online at (website). UrbanToronto will continue to keep its readers posted on all major transit updates as work progresses across the GTHA.