Metrolinx issues RFQ for GO Transit's Lakeshore East project

Infrastructure Ontario (IO) and Metrolinx have issued a request for qualifications (RFQ) for firms interested in building and financing the GO Transit Lakeshore East-Central Corridor Expansion project.

The chosen firm will build all supporting infrastructure, including retaining walls along the central segment of the corridor, IO and Metrolinx officials said in a press release.

The tasks addressed in the RFQ also include two grade separations and track and grading work along a 2.1-mile stretch of the Lakeshore East commuter-rail line.

The project is part of Metrolinx's planned expansion of GO Transit rail service in support of the larger GO Regional Express Rail (RER) plan, which is aimed at providing faster and more frequent transit service across the Toronto and Hamilton area. The RER project includes the electrification of core segments of the GO rail network by 2024 or 2025.

Major infrastructure updates are needed to make way for RER service improvements, according to IO. Those updates include modifying GO stations, improving rail crossings, building required systems for electrification, and adding new locomotives and train control systems.

"This piece of the East Corridor Expansion project is another critical step in preparing the rail network for increased GO service to Scarborough and neighbouring communities through the GO expansion program," said John Jensen, president and chief executive officer of Metrolinx.

The RFQ is available for download at merx.com.