Waterfront East LRT

Project Area

The TTC is leading design and engineering for the underground transit link between Union Station and Queens Quay that will surface at a new portal on Queens Quay east of Bay Street. Waterfront Toronto is leading the design and engineering for the on-street portion of the transit infrastructure and the streetscape along Queens Quay East between Bay Street and the future New Cherry Street, building on the successful design vision that transformed Queens Quay West. Along Cherry Street from the current Distillery Loop to Commissioners Street, the design will build upon work completed by the Port Lands Flood Protection project to install a dedicated transit right of way and complete the surrounding public realm. The design will enhance streetscape and public spaces, making for a faster, safer, and more enjoyable experience for transit riders, pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists along the length of the corridor. 

Project Status

In November 2023, City Staff reported to Toronto City Council on the completed 30% design and costing, preliminary design business case, and constructability assessment for the Waterfront East LRT. Council adopted recommendations including approval of the project alignment, funding and direction to undertake 60% design of Segments 2 and 3 of the project (Queens Quay to Villiers Loop and Cherry north connection), and direction to secure environmental approvals for all Segments of the project, among other items.  
 

A Transit and Rail Project Assessment Process (TRAP) to update the previous Environmental Assessments is also underway. The official Notice of Commencement and how to provide comments on the draft Environmental Project Report can be found on the City of Toronto’s website.
 

Public Consultation

Public consultation is a vital part of the planning process of the WELRT. The planning and design teams have engaged with residents to discuss this City of Toronto priority project. In March 2019, the City of Toronto held a public meeting to gather feedback on the initial plans. In February and June of 2021, virtual community consultations introduced new design work. In April 2023, the City of Toronto, Waterfront Toronto and TTC hosted a virtual public meeting to update the public on design changes and progress and hear feedback on the Waterfront East Light Rail Transit (LRT) Extension. You can access the presentations and Engagement Summary Reports through the links below.

April 2023 Virtual Public Meeting

• View the Meeting Recording (LINK)
• View the Presentation Slides (PDF)
• Read the Summary Report (LINK)
   

June 2021 Virtual Community Consultation

• View the Meeting Recording (LINK)
• View the Presentation Slides (PDF)
• Read the Summary Report (PDF)
• Read the Appendix (PDF)
   

February 2021 Virtual Community Consultation

• View the Meeting Recording (LINK)
• View the Presentation Slides (PDF)
• Read the Summary Report (PDF)
• Read the Appendix (PDF)
   

March 2019 Public Meeting

• View the Presentation Slides (PDF)
• View the Display Panels (PDF)
   

September 2017 Public Meeting

• View the Presentation of Study Findings (PDF)
   

May 2016 Public Meetings

• View the Presentation of Study Progress (PDF)

Since the last public meeting, the project team has continued to engage with stakeholders and landowners on the design development for this piece of the project. 

For more detailed information and to participate in future public consultations, please visit the City of Toronto website.