Community weighs in on Ontario Line and GO Expansion design

TORONTO—Metrolinx launched a survey to collect public input on how the new Ontario Line and GO Expansion infrastructure will fit into the established Toronto neighbourhoods of Riverside, South Riverdale and Leslieville.

The online questionnaire, which closed at the end of October, focused on new retaining walls, noise barriers, underpass treatments and vegetative landscaping. Metrolinx received over 160 responses to the survey.  

In terms of ranking the design priorities for the new infrastructure, the survey participants prioritized reducing noise levels, protecting the tree canopy, introducing new trees and plants and minimizing the potential visual and physical impacts of transit service within the rail corridor, the Metrolinx blog states.

The following is some of the feedback received:

• Several survey participants preferred noise barriers made from a material that has the strongest noise-reducing benefit and noted the level of transparency should vary depending on the location.
• For both the future retaining and noise walls, participants said they wanted Metrolinx to explore greenery and artwork to soften the visual impact of the new infrastructure.
• Accessibility, deterring vandalism and a desire for multi-use trails were the top priorities for the new green space Metrolinx is creating after construction is complete.
• As part of Ontario Line upgrades, new rail bridges at Eastern Avenue, Queen Street, Dundas Street and Logan Avenue will be built.  Based on feedback from the community, Metrolinx is exploring architectural lighting that can be integrated into the underpass walls.
• Embankments and vertical green walls are being explored using evergreen and perennial plants for colourful vegetation in all seasons.
• For new trees, deciduous row and coniferous trees are the top choices selected by survey respondents to create a diverse species mix while providing greenery all year round.

For a summary of the consultation visit https://www.metrolinxengage.com/sites/default/files/ol_east_segment_design_survey_-_ethelo_summary_report.pdf