TTC has struggled to keep the Queensway trackage level for decades. Lots of different maintenance methods, all of them leading to the same result - a bumpy, swaying ride with slow spots and operators not wanting to take chances by running at full speed. It seems there is no way to keep tracks sitting on loose-soil ballast tamped down properly.
I interpret this decision as the TTC throwing up their hands and admitting defeat.
I like the grass median idea, but only if it maintains fast safe and comfortable operation, and only if track maintenance costs remain reasonable. TTC doesn't appear to have this capability.
- Paul
Honestly, I'd settle for an astro-turf like solution instead of just plain concrete. It doesn't need to be functional, it just needs to add some green in the middle of a roadway.