Ontario is moving forward quickly to deliver the four priority subway expansion projects the Ontario Line (OL), Scarborough Subway Extension (SSE), Yonge North Subway (YNSE), and Eglinton Crosstown West Extension (ECWE).

Infrastructure Ontario (IO) and Metrolinx began engaging with companies domestically and internationally to build interest in Ontario's subways program. Market soundings were held with a variety of construction, engineering and design firms and equity providers to share information about the program and to solicit their input. These meetings gathered feedback on market capacity and interest and identified how to reduce risk, accelerate delivery of the projects and assess which early works projects could be started in advance of the four priority subway expansion projects.

Procurement activity is also underway to build the team of advisors who will deliver the subway projects.

• A Request for Proposals (RFP) has been issued for the Program Controls Services Consultant (PCSC) for the subway program. The PCSC provides overall project controls services and oversees schedule, risk management and cost estimating functions of the subways program. The PCSC contract is expected to be awarded in Spring 2020.
• Last month, a contract was awarded to HDR, who will be the Technical Advisor (TA) for the Ontario Line subway project. The TA works with all stakeholders to help define the project design and scope from an engineering perspective and supports the transaction and construction phases.
• RFPs have also been issued for a TA for the Eglinton Crosstown West Extension and for a TA for the Scarborough Subway Extension and the Yonge North Subway Extension projects. These contracts are expected to be awarded in Spring 2020.
• Contracts have also been awarded to McCarthy Tetrault LLP, Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP, and Blakes, Cassels & Graydon LLP for legal services for the subway projects. These firms provide legal advisory services, which include contract drafting and execution, legal advice related to scope elements and interpretation of regulatory requirements.