Mace, Comtech, SYSTRA awarded delivery partner contract for largest transit infrastructure program in Canadian history

Metrolinx has awarded a program delivery partner contract to the MCS consortium, which includes Mace, Comtech and SYSTRA, to support the GO Expansion program.  

“Metrolinx is continuing to unlock regional growth through investment in the GO Expansion program. We look forward to working with MCS as our program delivery partner to oversee and coordinate all station and corridor work, integrating multiple GO Expansion projects for more seamless management and delivery of infrastructure upgrades and new construction,” said Stephanie Davies, executive vice president GO Expansion, Capital Projects Group, Metrolinx. “The complex work being delivered throughout our network will be tied together to create greater value for current and future riders and deliver on our promise of a more connected, more sustainable GTHA.” 

MCS will establish a program level management regime to integrate all aspects of the GO Expansion program through the development, implementation and continuous improvement of program-wide systems, processes and procedures in order to support ‘Best for Program’ decision making, subject to Metrolinx’s governance, policies and procedures. 

"By combining Mace’s extensive delivery partner expertise with SYSTRA’s local and international rail technical expertise, and Comtech’s in-depth local project and program management knowledge, we are creating a winning formula for delivering on Metrolinx’s vision,” said Jason Millett, CEO of Consultancy, Mace. “We look forward to supporting the delivery and being part of a journey that will leave a world-class legacy in Canada.” 

MCS will be integrated as delivery partners with Metrolinx to manage this complex program of works, which includes new stations, electrification of existing lines, installing new rail lines, upgrading existing stations, signaling and more. The program delivery model brings skilled external partners into the Metrolinx team to collaborate in managing integration and delivery of major projects through all phases. 

The 10-year rail infrastructure program, GO Expansion, aims to expand the GO Transit rail service. With a long-term vision of providing two-way, all-day service, every 15 minutes or less on core segments of its rail network, Metrolinx will provide increased connections between communities. 

As an infrastructure program, GO Expansion will support the growing regional economy through job creation and improved connectivity, unlocking investment and urban development in the province of Ontario. The combination of cleaner, electric trains and more people using metro-style transit will also significantly improve air quality in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area. 

Together, the three firms will draw on their individual strengths for the benefit of the program. Mace will leverage British expertise from the mobilization of large integrated teams on the HS2 program at Euston Station in London as well as Birmingham New Street Station, and from its successful role as a delivery partner for the London 2012 Olympic Games 

In equal measure, Metrolinx will benefit from Comtech’s experience delivering multiple mandates within Metrolinx’s capital projects portfolio and expertise in program delivery and information system management, along with French engineering firm SYSTRA’s extensive international track record in rail construction, operations and maintenance. 

"We are excited to be extending Comtech’s long-standing commitment to Metrolinx delivering this program alongside our partners Mace and SYSTRA," said Andrew Philip, executive vice president, transportation and infrastructure, Comtech Group. “Our team's combined expertise in integrated program delivery, project controls and rail technology will support Metrolinx as they embrace this new partner delivery model." 

Dave Spagnolo, CEO of SYSTRA Canada, added, "We are delighted to be part of this Metrolinx project with our partners Mace and Comtech. As an international engineering firm with extensive experience in transportation systems and a strong presence in Canada, we are proud to be part of the team that will deliver this ambitious project for Metrolinx. Together, we will combine expertise, innovation and a focus on user needs to provide the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area with the most sustainable infrastructure possible."