Infrastructure Ontario (IO) and Metrolinx have issued a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for interested parties to design build and finance the Lakeshore West Corridor Infrastructure Improvements project. The infrastructure upgrades are required to accommodate the planned expansion of GO Transit rail service on the Lakeshore West line.
“We are excited to take another step towards more frequent and efficient service for our current and future customers,” said Phil Verster, president and CEO of Metrolinx. “The kick-off of the Lakeshore West GO rail corridor procurement for close to a dozen projects will help Metrolinx deliver the GO expansion project on time and budget.”
The RFQ outlines the scope of work required, which includes:
- Exhibition Station In-Corridor Enabling Works and Track Improvements;
- Long Branch Station Improvements & Accessibility;
- Clarkson Station In-Corridor Enabling Works;
- Kerr Street Grade Separation;
- Bronte Station In-Corridor Enabling Works;
- Burloak Drive Grade Separation;
- Drury Lane Pedestrian Bridge Replacement; and
- Lewis Road Layover Facility-Phase II Expansion.
This project is part of Metrolinx’s planned expansion of GO Transit rail service in support of GO Regional Express Rail (RER). GO RER will provide faster, more frequent and more convenient transit service across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA), including electrification of core segments of the GO rail network by 2024-25. The program will provide new travel choices for commuters, significantly increase transit ridership, cut journey times, and help manage congestion across the GTHA.
“IO is pleased to issue another RFQ and to continue to help deliver the RER program,” said Ehren Cory, president and CEO of Infrastructure Ontario. “The Lakeshore West Corridor Infrastructure Improvements project is an important component and IO looks forward to reviewing the submissions by the market for this AFP project.”
Major infrastructure updates are required to bring this level of service to communities across the region, including: modifying GO stations, improving rail crossings, building required systems for electrification, and adding new locomotives and train control systems.
The RFQ is the first step in the procurement process to select a team to deliver the project. IO and Metrolinx will evaluate submissions to prequalify project teams with the relevant design and construction experience. Teams that qualify will be invited to respond to a request for proposals early next year. Interested companies must register with www.merx.com to download the RFQ.
The project is being delivered using IO’s Alternative Financing and Procurement (AFP) model, an innovative way of financing and procuring large, complex public infrastructure projects.
