TTC signal upgrades continue this weekend

This weekend, Sept. 16-17, testing and emergency response training for the TTC’s new Automatic Train Control (ATC) system will require Line 1 Yonge-University to close between St George and Sheppard West (formerly Downsview) stations. During the closure, crews will begin switching train operations to the new ATC system between Dupont and Yorkdale stations as the TTC continues preparations for the opening of the Line 1 extension to York Region on Dec. 17.

This is the tenth of 11 closures on this portion of Line 1 in 2017 as the TTC modernizes its operations. When installation is complete on Line 1 in 2019, ATC will result in a more reliable signal system that will allow for a 25 per cent increase in the number of trains operating on the line.

Shuttle buses will run between Sheppard West and Lawrence West stations only due to on-street construction around Eglinton West, St Clair West and Dupont stations. To supplement shuttle service and move customers more efficiently to the Yonge St. side of Line 1, the TTC is doubling service on nine east-west bus and streetcar routes in the closure area.

Surface routes with extra service are:
- 7 Bathurst
- 14 Glencairn
- 32 Eglinton West
- 52 Lawrence West
- 84 Sheppard West
- 96 Wilson
- 109 Ranee
- 127 Davenport
- 512 St Clair

To provide better shuttle bus service, parking will be restricted on Bathurst St. between Bloor St. and Barton Ave.

Wheel-Trans buses will operate during the closure for customers requiring an accessible connection. Customers can speak with any TTC staff to request the service.

Dupont and Glencairn stations will be closed. All other stations will be open for fare sales and access to surface routes.

While the TTC does much of its subway maintenance work at the conclusion of service each night, it continues to require weekend closures to complete ATC and state-of-good-repair work, like replacing track and maintaining switches. One weekend of work during a closure is equivalent to about five weeks of nightly work.

Here is a video explanation of signal systems, Automatic Train Control, and why the TTC needs weekends to complete critical work. (https://youtu.be/FcGhkh10Q3I)

Regular subway service resumes Monday, Sept. 18 at 6 a.m. The next scheduled subway closures are:
- Sept. 23-24 - Line 2 Bloor-Danforth: Kipling to Islington for track work.
- Oct. 7-9 - Line 2 Bloor-Danforth: Broadview to St. George for work on the Bloor Viaduct
- Oct 14-15 - Line 1 Yonge-University: Davisville to Lawrence for track work.