Thursday, May 22, 2025
The Government of Ontario has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the first package of civil and utility work for the Hamilton Light Rail Transit (LRT). This marks another milestone in the province’s plan to protect Ontario by building transit, reducing gridlock, and creating thousands of good-paying jobs in one of Ontario’s fastest-growing cities.
“Today, we’re one step closer to getting shovels in the ground on this critical transit project that will connect thousands of residents in Hamilton to good jobs and housing, while protecting Ontario workers in the face of President Trump’s unfair tariffs,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation. “Under Premier Ford’s leadership, our government is delivering the largest transit expansion in North America to tackle gridlock, keep workers and families moving, and create good-paying jobs.”
Following a Request for Qualifications (RFQ), four teams have been invited to submit proposals for civil work, including utility relocations, roads, structures, grade separations, bridges, sidewalks, and traffic control signals along the 14-kilometre route.
The Hamilton LRT project is No. 24 on ReNew Canada’s 2025 Top100 Projects report.
“Hamilton is in an exciting period of transformation and growth, and the LRT is a major step toward delivering the modern, reliable transit system our city deserves,” said Andrea Horwath, Mayor of Hamilton. “Paired with our reimagined bus network, it will better connect people—whether they’re heading to work, school, a show downtown, or small businesses from East to West. I’m grateful to our provincial and federal partners for their continued support of this transformational investment.”
Once complete, the Hamilton LRT will connect 50,000 daily commuters to an expanded Hamilton Street Railway and GO network, offering service to 17 stops, including McMaster University, City Hall, Hamilton Stadium, Eastgate Square, downtown Hamilton, and other popular locations. The LRT will put tens of thousands of jobs within walking distance of fast and reliable transit.
“This is another major milestone on an important transit project that already has shovels in the ground. Progress is being made on advanced early works projects, with five of those projects now completed and four more underway. This work includes water main, hydro and telecommunications upgrades along the alignment. We’re excited to continue working collaboratively with the federal and provincial governments as well as the City of Hamilton to deliver this important transit project to the people of Hamilton,” said Michael Lindsay, interim president and CEO, Metrolinx.
Featured image: The future King Street East underpass will allow light rail vehicles (LRVs) to travel beneath the existing Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) rail line. Separating the two lines will help ensure reliable, continuous service along the LRT route, providing customers with a smooth and convenient journey. (Government of Ontario)
