Eglinton Crosstown LRT

The Eglinton Crosstown Light Rail Transit project delivered a new east–west rapid transit corridor across Toronto, connecting neighbourhoods and integrating with existing subway and regional transit networks. 

EllisDon was a key partner in the design, construction, financing, and maintenance of this large-scale project, which included 25 stations and stops, with a combination of underground and at-grade alignment. The work required delivery of major transit infrastructure within dense urban corridors while maintaining continuity of existing services. 

A significant portion of the project involved complex structures and underground works, including construction of stations up to 23 metres below grade and work carried out adjacent to and beneath active subway infrastructure. These activities were completed without interrupting transit operations and within highly constrained conditions. 

The project also required extensive utilities coordination and underground infrastructure management. Existing services were maintained throughout construction through detailed investigation, coordination with multiple utility providers, and use of solutions such as custom utility supports and consolidated duct bank systems. This approach helped manage risk and reduce impacts within one of the city’s busiest corridors. 

EllisDon completed substantial earthworks and land development, including remediation and redevelopment of a 57-acre former industrial site to support the Eglinton Maintenance and Storage Facility (EMSF). The work included management of contaminated soils and groundwater, along with implementation of long-term environmental protection measures. The EMSF provides essential operational support for the transit line, accommodating a large fleet of light rail vehicles and supporting ongoing system performance. 

Throughout the project, EllisDon coordinated closely with Metrolinx, the City of Toronto, utility providers, and surrounding stakeholders to manage construction within active roadways, maintain access to properties and businesses, and minimize disruption to the public. 

Achievements:

• 2014 Transportation Project of the Year Award from Institute of Transport Engineers
• 2015 North American Rail Deal of the Year from Infrastructure Journal (IJ) Global Awards
• 2015 Visions and Master Plans- Award of Merit from Toronto Urban Design Awards
• 2015 Gold- National Awards for Innovation & Excellence (Infrastructure) from Canadian Council for Public-Private-Partnerships (CCPPP)
• 2015 Award for Planning Excellence from Canadian Institute of Planners
• 2016 Canada’s Largest P3 Contract from On-Site Magazine
• 2016 Silver- Best Transit Project from American P3 Awards
• 2025, 2024, 2022, 2020, 2018 Top 100 Projects Report on Canada’s Biggest Infrastructure Projects – Platinum Elite Stats from ReNew Canada