MARKHAM, June 2, 2010 – Metrolinx and York Region today announced the continuation of construction of the Viva rapid transit lanes (rapidways) along Enterprise Drive in Markham, since work stopped for the winter season. The construction of the rapidways, which began in October 2009, is expected to be completed by November 2010, bringing commuters one step closer to quicker and more convenient public transportation.
Construction this year will include work on traffic signals at the Warden Avenue and Enterprise Drive intersection, building concrete curbs, pouring concrete for the platforms and installing new vivastations. Current transit service in this area will not be affected during construction.
“I am pleased to see that this project is moving forward. The completion of this project will bring improved transit for the people of Markham,” said Markham-Unionville MPP Michael Chan. “We look forward to working with York Region and Metrolinx to continue this important progress to improve public transit for Markham commuters.”
“This project is another great example of how transformative transit projects are moving forward in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area,” said Robert Prichard, President and CEO of Metrolinx. “Projects such as this will create increased transportation choices for people, reduce congestion, provide opportunities for regional bus growth and improve the environment.”
“Ridership continues to grow on YRT and Viva as residents directly benefit from continued investment in public transit,” said York Region Chairman and CEO Bill Fisch. “By working together with Metrolinx and the Province to improve overall transit network services, we are in a better position to keep pace with both the growth in York Region and a growing demand for public transit.”
The rapidways begin at the north-west corner of Warden Avenue and Enterprise Drive, cross Warden to the east side and then continue adjacent to Enterprise on the north side for 0.83 kilometres to Birchmount Drive. The rapidways will see Viva travelling in their own designated lanes, allowing people using this service to avoid congested traffic and reduce their travel time by 40 per cent.
The $12.7 million project is being funded through Metrolinx, the agency appointed by the Province of Ontario to oversee transit expansion in the Greater Toronto Area. Read about Metrolinx’s Regional Transportation Plan, The Big Move.
York Region’s vivaNext plan is a key component of the vision outlined by Ontario’s Places to Grow Act, which aims to manage growth in a sustainable and environmentally-friendly way that enriches communities. For more information about the vivaNext plan and to sign up for specific project updates, please visit www.vivanext.com.
Media Contacts:
Dale Albers Vanessa Thomas
York Region Rapid Transit Corporation Metrolinx
905-886-6767, ext. 1020 416-369-3600, ext. 5264
dale.albers@york.ca vanessa.thomas@gotransit.com