Original Issue Date: September 19, 2017
Re-issue Dates: October 2, 2017
The Eglinton Crosstown includes a 10-kilometre underground portion, between Weston Road and Laird Drive, where 15 below-grade stations are under construction. Eleven will be built using a “cut-and cover” method and four, including Laird Station, are going to be “mined.”
Excavation of the main entrance at Laird Station is complete and mining has now begun.
During mining, crews will excavate from the existing shafts and work deep beneath Eglinton Avenue. The mining technique will not be used at every location along the line but is being implemented where geology permits due to its reduced impact at street level.
Above is an example of the tunneling work for the Ottawa Cofederation project which used a similar sequenced mining technique
Advantages of Mining
There are many reasons for mining stations, including fewer disruptions and inconveniences for drivers, residents and businesses. While crews work below the surface, there are minimal changes to traffic, people can come and go that much easier and there is less impact on everyone’s daily lives.
Underground Activities
The primary underground activities for safe and effective excavation include the need to ensure removal of ground water, installation of supports for the excavation, excavation and concrete works.
As work progresses, it will occur simultaneously underground and at street level. The limited activities visible to the public will include: delivery of materials, removal of soils, equipment and pipes necessary for dewatering and ventilation.
In addition, a water treatment plant will be used to facilitate the majority of the dewatering required during mining. Occasionally, a vacuum truck will be required to support this activity, with every effort made to minimize this occurrence during the overnight period.
What You May Experience
In order to take advantage of the mining method, work will need to take place during 24-hour cycles. This continuous work will begin in late September 2017, and carry on through to late 2019.
Noise Reduction Measures
As a result of construction and associated truck activity, some noise and vibration may be experienced.
Prior to this work commencing, several noise mitigation measures were explored and a noise and vibration reduction plan has been put in place. Noise barrier walls, ventilation silencers, rubber mats, alternative backup signals, enclosures for pumps and generators as well as careful sequencing of the works to minimize night time delivery and hauling have all been incorporated in order to minimize the impact that construction will have on the local community.
By expediting the construction process, this work also serves to help Metrolinx deliver better transit to the city on time.
Working Together
Metrolinx and its contractor, Crosslinx Transit Solutions, will work together with the City of Toronto to monitor any situation of concern or disruptions. We know that during construction of this significance, residents will be inconvenienced. We will continue to work hard to keep residents informed as we deliver this important transit project. Thank you for your patience.
For more information, please contact Heather Glicksman at the East Community Office.
Thank you for your patience as we work to build this important project.
Please support your local businesses during construction.
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