How will the underground sections of the Eglinton Crosstown LRT line be constructed?
The majority of the underground segment of the line will consist of side by side, or “twin tunnels”. Each tunnel will be 6 metres in diameter and will be constructed using tunnel boring machines that drill deep below street level. In addition to tunnelling, construction on stations, portals, stations with special trackwork such as crossover and storage/turn back tracks will require a second method called “cut and cover”. This method requires the excavation of the ground to create a trench where the station structure will be located. During the construction phase, utilities will be relocated, and then excavation will begin. Decking will then be installed to allow traffic to flow over the construction site. Once the station box has been completed, the decking will be removed, the remaining open area will be backfilled and the surface will be restored. Detailed traffic management plans including comprehensive pedestrian and parking arrangements will be developed during the detailed design
