Tunnelling starts under Toronto highways

8 January 2020


Ontario – Metrolinx announced tunnel work has begun under highways 401 and 409 for its new train tunnel. Considered one of the busiest sections of highway in North America, according to Metrolinx, which released a video on December 16 showcasing the SEM construction below 21 live lanes of traffic.

“The start of tunnelling is moving us one step closer to providing two-way, all-day train service on the Kitchener line,” said Sudhir Bagde, Metrolinx project manager.

”Tunnelling sets the infrastructure for us to build additional tracks for the GO expansion program and expand service on the Kitchener line.”

Toronto Tunnel Partners (EllisDon Capital, Strabag, WSP Canada, Dr. Sauer & Partners, and Amec Foster Wheeler) is using a scooptram front loader from RDH and lattice girders for support. In spring 2019, crews installed 12m-long canopy tubes using auger boring and a 0.795m diameter drill bit.

When the project is complete, the length of two single track tunnels will each total approximately 180m. The construction team will excavate 31,000 cubic metres of material, and use more than 8,000 cubic metres of shotcrete.

Photos courtesy of Metrolinx

Photos courtesy of Metrolinx
Photos courtesy of Metrolinx
Photos courtesy of Metrolinx