The opening of the 2nd platform doesn't need having the loop open at the same time, but it would be nice.
All indentations are saying the loop will be ready for service in July compare to the current date by TTC for Aug. This allows the return of the 509 car.
Again, depending on who you talk to, they are saying different things based on what what they know and their position.
Until someone comes up with $375m, the loop will not be expanded. There are talks underway of a P3 between the province, city and Waterfront Toronto and going after the Feds for more money.
As for the Bremner line under the ACC, most likely will never happen and if so, sometime in 2030+ since the Western Waterfront Line is at the bottom of the list. Can't see 514? Bathurst car using this line only as plan to spend big bucks for that short section. Having this line cutting into the 2+ QQ lines routes at ACC is an operation nightmare waiting to happen.
Based on TTC numbers of 10-12,000 riders at peak time using the expanded loop was based on a different vision for the Waterfront compare to what is now being plan. 1 Yonge alone has destroy the plan and numbers, When you start looking at what is now being plan for the whole area, the loop will never be able to handle the ridership at all. I have stated this from day one when TTC presented the plan during the early stage of the transit EA's as far back as 2006. The loop was only good for today needs to about 2025 and after that, you need to do something different to deal with the future needs.
The new entrance to Union station will open when the new concourse opens in 2015/16 that will replace the east section one.
As a follow up to the posting above, the tunnel under the ACC is there now with the portal being in the turning loop on the west side of ACC with no interference with MTLS and Telus. It will be one way in & out and you drive around the portal to do it.