The SmartTrack Stations Program represents a significant investment to improve transportation choices within Toronto and to leverage existing transit infrastructure to serve more people. Combined with Metrolinx’s GO Expansion Program, SmartTrack will transform heavy rail infrastructure in Toronto from a regional commuter service into an urban rapid transit network. With additional stations, all-day, two-way service, increased frequency and quieter and faster trains, SmartTrack and GO Expansion will expand transit access for Toronto residents travelling within and beyond the city.
The SmartTrack Stations Program, which is anticipated to be constructed in its entirety by 2026, also offers an earlier transit expansion solution while the Province’s Subway Program (i.e., Ontario Line, Scarborough Subway Extension, Eglinton Crosstown West Extension and Yonge North Subway Extension) is constructed.
Altogether, the SmartTrack Stations Program, the GO Expansion Program, the Subway Program and the LRT Program (i.e., Eglinton Crosstown and Finch West) comprise a multi-billion dollar investment from all orders of government that will substantially increase the amount of transit infrastructure in Toronto.
As part of the Ontario-Toronto Transit Partnership Agreement authorized by City Council in October 2019, the City and Province committed to working together to advance and deliver the SmartTrack Stations Program. This commitment included reviewing the Agreement in Principle that was approved by City Council in November 2016 and endorsing the project for federal funding under the City’s allocation of the Public Transit Stream of the Federal Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.
In February 2021, City Council approved updated terms that will be incorporated into a revised Agreement in Principle to advance the SmartTrack Stations Program. Further details can be found in staff report 2021.EX20.2: Advancing the SmartTrack Stations Program.