Metrolinx is continuing construction of the Eglinton Crosstown light-rail transit (LRT) project, with the latest milestone adding some green to the scene.
Portions of the at-grade section, east of Brentcliffe Road, will feature green tracks to help integrate the new transit line with Eglinton Avenue’s many parks and green spaces.
The ‘green’ will be made up of grass and additional foliage planted down the middle of the LRV route.
A mock-up of the green tracks, totaling 16 meters (52.5 feet) in length and 92-square meters (990-square feet) in area, has been installed at the Golden Mile stop east of Warden Avenue.
The installation of each section of green track takes three months after the final design is approved. Each section will include irrigation chambers, water supply and an energy supply to power the irrigation system.
Not only do the green tracks look good, but they serve a purpose.
Swapping out concrete for grass can help keep temperatures down in the heat of summer. Grass and other vegetation can also act as a sound dampener, absorb rain to reduce run-off and minimize the spread of dust.
It’s all part of Metrolinx’s goal to provide environmentally sustainable light-rail transit service across Toronto.
