Metrolinx have released the findings of its comprehensive study of the electrification for the entire GO Transit rail system and the future Air Rail Link (ARL).
After a careful review of the findings, the staff is recommending to the Metrolinx Board of Directors to move forward on the electrification of the GO Georgetown and Lakeshore corridors in phases, beginning with the ARL on the Georgetown corridor.
“The staff recommendation is based on the transportation benefits associated with electrification,” said Bruce McCuaig, President and CEO of Metrolinx. “These benefits include journey time savings for our customers and a reduction in operating costs. In addition, proceeding with the recommended option for electrification is a significant step towards the Big Move’s long term vision for Express Rail.”
High ridership numbers and existing infrastructure improvements make the Lakeshore and Georgetown corridors the strongest candidates for electrification.
The final report, appendices and staff recommendations will be reviewed at a special meeting of the Board of Directors on Wednesday, January 26, 2011 where the Board will make a recommendation to the Ontario Minister of Transportation.
