Infrastructure Ontario (IO) and Metrolinx have issued a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for interested parties to design, build and finance the Davenport Diamond Rail Grade Separation project.

This project is part of Metrolinx's work to provide faster, more frequent and convenient transit service across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA), as part of the GO Regional Express Rail (RER) program.

The RFQ outlines the work required at the Davenport Diamond, located in Toronto along the Barrie Rail Corridor. To accommodate the planned expansion of GO Transit rail services, the scope of work includes:

• construction of a grade separation structure between the north/south GO Rail corridor and east/west CP Rail corridor to minimize delays to GO service
• implementation of a pedestrian underpass to restore east/west connection at Paton Road
• erection of retaining walls forming the approaches of the grade separation structure, topped with noise barrier walls and superimposed cladding to minimize impacts on the community
• construction of a rail guideway offset within the corridor during construction to accommodate a temporary diversion track and a temporary rail diamond
• modification of an existing at-grade road crossing at Wallace Avenue to become a road under rail grade separation
• public realm enhancements, including artwork on the structure cladding and new pedestrian and cyclist routes
• provisions for future electrification implemented within upgraded rail infrastructure to accommodate future electrified GO train service

Steven Del Duca, Minister of Transportation, said:

“The Davenport Diamond Grade Separation is a significant infrastructure project that will reduce delays and improve service on the GO rail network. It will play a crucial role in supporting GO Regional Express Rail service and the electrification of GO service on the Barrie Corridor. The improvements to the public realm that are part of the Davenport Diamond project demonstrate how the work we are doing to deliver GO RER is creating additional benefits for communities all across the GO rail network.”

Bob Chiarelli, Minister of Infrastructure, stated:

“This project will benefit thousands of commuters by offering more frequent trains and a quicker ride to work or home. Reduced car trips and increased transit ridership help to reduce traffic congestion and contribute to shorter delivery times for companies moving their products or providing services using busy GTHA highways.”