Metrolinx Upgrades Add Capacity Along Kitchener GO Line

Written by Kyra Senese, Managing Editor
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Detailed inspection determined some components of the Wilson Street bridge (circa 1902) required complete replacement.
Narges Hameidi Photo

Metrolinx has been completing upgrades to the Kitchener GO Line since taking ownership of the track between Georgetown and Kitchener in 2018.

As part of the GO Expansion program, the Kitchener GO Line will be transformed into a two-way, all-day rapid transit line that will provide increased service and connections from Union Station to Kitchener.

Infrastructure renovations, as part of these upgrades, will allow for more frequent and convenient train service outside of peak hours, a release said. 

With this work completed, a second track between Wellington Street and Silvercreek Parkway can be installed.

Work on the restoration of the retaining wall between Dublin Street and Wyndham Street began in spring 2022 to enable GO Extension in Guelph, according to Metrolinx. The retaining wall upgrades were aimed to protect vegetation in Waterloo Avenue Park.

The Norfolk Street bridge has also been improved to support two-way, all-day GO Train service, and the Wilson Street bridge has been completely replaced. 

Following the testing of signal modifications that result in crossing arms, lights, and noises responding to approaching trains significantly sooner, passenger train speed restrictions through the City of Guelph were increased to 45 miles per hour, a release said. 

The rail corridor can now safely accommodate freight trains passing more quickly through the area, cutting travel times, with the bridge and construction work now done, according to Metrolinx. The speed restriction for freight trains in the area will be lifted to 30 miles per hour on April 3.

Metrolinx said train speeds will continue to be determined by operational requirements such as track alignment or passing through construction zones, and may be lower than the listed speed at times.

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