Regional Express Rail - Highway 401 Rail Tunnel

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Opportunity Announced by the Government of Ontario in 2014, Regional Express Rail (RER) will transform the public transit system in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area over the next decade. RER will transform the GO rail network, bringing 15-minute, two-way, all-day electrified GO service to communities across the region. In order to implement RER system-wide infrastructure upgrades will be necessary including additional tracks, expanded stations, electrification of the rail network, new locomotives and new train control systems. In order to increase capacity on the Kitchener Corridor it will be necessary to upgrade the rail tunnel which passes under Highway 401/409. Results The project includes design and construction of a new tunnel two metres north of an existing tunnel under Highway 401/409 to accommodate additional tracks as required for the Regional Express Rail Program. The new tunnel (approximately 176 meters in length, 10.7 meters wide and 8.6 meters high) will pass under 21 lanes of traffic and will carry two tracks that permit operating speeds of up to 90 mph for passenger traffic and up to 35 mph for freight traffic. Replacement of retaining wall footings that support the ramp from eastbound Highway 409 to eastbound Highway 401. RER will have significant social, economic and green benefits including: reduced traffic congestion—which is currently estimated to cost up to $11 billion; reduced greenhouse gas emissions and fuel consumption; improved the quality of life for commuters by significantly reducing daily travel times; improved access to employment, education and other community activities; and Financial savings for commuters because fare systems will be integrated.

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