Yonge North Subway Extension construction partner confirmed for early upgrades at Finch Station

Metrolinx has selected its construction partner to complete upgrades at Finch Station, pushing the Yonge North Subway Extension one step closer to breaking ground.  

The upgrades will connect the approximately eight-kilometer subway extension to existing Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) Line 1 service. 

Construction partner Black & McDonald Limited has emerged as the successful bidder through a procurement competition that entered its final phase earlier this year. Upgrades at Finch Station are needed before the start of major construction on the extension and will help keep the project running smoothly. 

“We’re excited to bring a new partner on board to help us set the stage for major construction to begin,” said Metrolinx project sponsor Stephen Collins. “A lot of the work will be happening in parts of Finch Station that transit riders don’t usually see or notice when they ride the subway, but it’s very important work that will keep the project moving forward.” 

The most noticeable work will happen at street level, where improvements will be made to the electrical system that powers the rails. 

New heavy-duty electrical cables will be installed from an existing traction power substation on Hendon Avenue to Finch Station. The cables will be secured inside a protective casing and installed underground. A new fire department connection will also be installed near the intersection of Yonge Street and Hendon. 

Minor renovations and upgrades will be made to the electrical rooms inside Finch Station to accommodate these additional power cables. 

Changes to the existing tail track area, beyond the subway platform, will prepare it to become part of the main subway line. This involves extending the waterless sprinkler system from the existing service tracks through the tail tracks, along with new cables and other equipment that will link the future subway extension into existing communications and support systems. 

Metrolinx says it will work closely with the city of Toronto, the TTC and York Region Transit to keep customers and road users up to date on the work taking place and to keep people moving. 

Construction on the early works at Finch Station is expected to start in the fall of 2022.