While there is plenty of construction going on above ground to build the Eglinton Crosstown LRT right now, there is actually much more happening below the surface that you don’t see.

At three of the 15 underground stations currently being built, the method of construction being used is “mining.” Rather than dig through the road and create even more disruption, crews are actually digging underneath to keep everything moving.

Around-the-clock mining is needed at the future Oakwood, Avenue and Laird station locations but the benefits outweigh other methods of construction:

• Fewer disruptions when you drive or walk
• Less likelihood that resident and business access will be blocked
• Lower risk of environmental hazards

So how does mining work?

The earth is protected and stabilized, along with structures that surround the site. Wells are installed to keep water from seeping in, along with a pipe roof to keep the soil in place.

As each section is excavated, the walls and ceiling are sprayed with concrete and pipe roof is installed. That creates the underground cavern that will house the station platform and concourse.

Finally, the station platform is built along with the concourse and entrances. For more information, visit http://www.thecrosstown.ca