Metrolinx GO Expansion: Delivering a new era of rail in Greater Toronto

A decade-long rail modernisation programme

In 2022, Metrolinx, the agency that manages and integrates transport in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area, (GTHA) started a major program of regional transport upgrades. It chose a program delivery partner consortium in which SYSTRA teams will work for up to 10 years.

The SYSTRA, Mace and Comtech consortium was officially selected by Metrolinx to manage the GO Expansion program. The 10-year plan is unprecedented in scope for Metrolinx and is required to expand and modernise the entire Toronto area rail network, GO Transit. This highly complex program will provide faster, more frequent, and better-connected services to the entire region.

Together with our partners, we are integrated as delivery partners with Metrolinx to manage this complex program of works, which includes the refurbishment of existing stations and the creation of new ones, electrification of existing lines, implementation of new lines, and signalling.

Pooling expertise for programme delivery

Together, the three JV partner offices will pool their talents in equal measure:

• SYSTRA’s international railway experience in systems engineering, design assurance & coordination, construction, commissioning and preparation for operation, as well as in maintenance, will be key to the success of the project.

• Mace’s expertise from the mobilisation of its numerous teams integrated in the HS2 programme for London’s Euston and Birmingham’s New Street Station, as well as its involvement as a delivery partner for the London 2012 Olympic Games.

• And the local knowledge of Comtech, with whom we signed a joint venture in May 2021, will enable them to integrate seamlessly with Metrolinx and interface with their internal program controls and monitoring.

Supporting regional development with green mobility

The GO Expansion infrastructure program will support the region’s growing activity through improved rail links and job creation, which will unlock investment and increase urban development in the province of Ontario. The combination of green mobility, electric trains, and a large modal shift of passengers to metro-like trains is expected to significantly improve air quality throughout the region.