The Current Study

What is the current study about?

TORONTO (May 26, 2009) - Metrolinx is going to study the electrification of its entire GO Transit rail system as a future alternative to diesel trains currently in service. An external advisory committee made up of community representatives, including riders and independent technical experts, will be established to advise Metrolinx on the Terms of Reference for the study. "This committee’s advice will be important as we move forward in designing the study to guide us in converting GO Transit’s urban rail network from diesel to electric," said Rob Prichard, President and CEO of Metrolinx.

Among the issues the Terms of Reference could address:

• Criteria to determine the staging of electrification of GO’s rail lines
• Performance improvements for riders
• Power supply and distribution
• Union Station capacity
• Rail corridor ownership
• Urban planning benefits
• Vehicle technology options and availability
• Physical constraints
• Property impacts
• Impacts on GO capital and operating costs

"The Big Move recommends future Express Rail service throughout the GTHA, for which electrification is an important element. This study is the critical next step. I am very pleased that we are moving forward on this issue in a comprehensive way," said Rob MacIsaac, Chair of Metrolinx.

The study could commence as early as this summer and be completed by winter 2010.

Media contact:
Vanessa Thomas
Media Relations and Issues Specialist, GO Transit
416 869 3600 ext. 5264
vanessa.thomas@gotransit.com