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On Wednesday, the Metrolinx board approved a staff recommendation to begin electrification of GO Transit’s Georgetown and Lakeshore corridors in phases, starting with the Air Rail Link (ARL) on the Georgetown corridor.

"Electrification is an essential step towards the long-term vision of Express Rail laid out in the Big Move," said Bob Prichard, Metrolinx chairman, in a prepared statement.

The staff's recently completed, year-long study revealed transportation benefits associated with electrification — such as shorter travel times for riders and lower operating costs — which would increase over time and as service levels increase.

The ARL between Union Station and Pearson International Airport in Toronto was recommended as the first phase because Metrolinx already owns the corridor, Metrolinx officials said. The phase would not require electrification of the Union Station train shed area and ARL would operate as a distinct service from GO Transit.

The board's recommendation now will be presented to Ontario's minister of transportation.