I was on the second-ever West Harbour revenue train at 6:46am. Here are my photos of the experience.
Parking my SoBi and arriving at the station
After riding my SoBi on the Cannon Street bike path, I parked at the bike rack. Many many construction employees were in the plaza to welcome the first commuters. With three to four minutes to spare, I quickly snapped a bunch of photos.
Commuters crossing the bridge
This is the scenic part of my arrival.
The commuter POV
Feels like a real GO station. Ahh, new platform smell -- the faint smell of new sidewalk concrete.
Passing the waterfront CN rail yard
It feels very different being a passenger going through here.
The lake looparound
Curving around the eastmost tip of Lake Ontario, I see Hamilton steeltown industry in the far distance.
The Canadian Moment
With the industrials fading away behind -- it became idyllic for a moment. Several early morning canoeists and kayakers were having fun in this area. A uniquely idyllic Canadian moment worth heading to West Harbor GO instead of Hamilton GO, if you want the best lakefront view from the train.
And then familiarity instantly came, as we approached Aldershot. Felt weird approaching Aldershot rather than departing Aldershot, as in my usual car commute.
This 6:46am train departed right on the dot, and arrived at Union at exactly 7:57am.
This commute was brought to you by SoBi & GO.
Now please bring Niagara Summer Service to Hamilton next year!