4 things the city is learning about Toronto's LRT setup
As Hamilton continues planning for the city's LRT project, a new report shows councillors how similar deals in Toronto break down to give them an idea of what they might expect here.
The report, which goes before the city's LRT subcommittee on Tuesday, does specifically say city staffers haven't received any word that the agreements for Hamilton will be identical to Toronto, but it does give a glimpse into how things are being done nearby.
- HSR workers should operate Hamilton's new LRT system: Jackson
- All councillors will see big LRT issues at the same time now
Here are four things councillors will learn about Toronto's LRT deals (like the Eglinton Crosstown and Finch West lines).
1. The province owns the system
According to the report, the province owns the Toronto systems run by Metrolinx, as well as the tracks, stations and vehicles. The province is responsible for "lifecycle maintenance costs," while the city of Toronto is responsible for "operating and maintenance costs."
2. Costs are in the millions
The report says that maintenance costs for the Toronto lines costs millions of dollars, but it also says that Toronto's costs would be "significantly" different than Hamilton's.
"The Eglinton Crosstown LRT, for example, is a 19-km corridor, including 10 km of underground sections which are more expensive to operate and maintain," the report reads.
The Eglinton Crosstown LRT has an estimated annual gross cost of $80 million in 2021 dollars, the report says, with an estimated net financial impact of $39 million.
3. TTC drivers would operate Toronto systems
In Toronto, the assumption is that the Toronto Transit Comission (which runs the city's transit) would operate the new LRTs at the TTC has a "history and the infrastructure to support LRT operations," the report says.
The report does not say if Hamiton's HSR system would have that same necessary infrastructure.
4. City sets fares, and keeps revenue
In Toronto, the city and the TTC set the fare and service levels, "in conjunction with Metrolinx," the report says.
It also says that the city and the TTC retain the revenues generated from fares.