A welcome change arrives for Toronto commuters just in time for Easter celebrations. The Eglinton Crosstown LRT, Line 5, is extending its service hours, promising a smoother ride home for those enjoying late-night festivities.
Beginning Easter Sunday, trains will now run until 1:20 a.m. from Sunday through Friday, and on designated holidays. Saturday service will be extended until 12:30 a.m., offering significantly more flexibility for riders.
During peak hours, expect trains arriving every four minutes, a substantial improvement in frequency. Even during off-peak times, service will maintain a consistent pace with trains every six to ten minutes.
This expansion marks a significant step forward for the relatively new line, which initially operated until only 11 p.m. The TTC is carefully phasing in these extended hours, a deliberate strategy to ensure optimal performance.
The gradual rollout allows for rigorous testing and fine-tuning of schedules based on real-world conditions. This approach ensures a reliable and efficient transit experience for everyone.
Beyond extended hours, the city is actively prioritizing the LRT. Traffic lights along the route have already been adjusted to give trains precedence over left-turning vehicles, minimizing delays.
Further enhancements are planned in the coming months, promising even faster and more dependable travel times. These improvements are designed to elevate the overall customer experience.
The Eglinton Crosstown line, connecting 25 stations from Mount Dennis to Kennedy station, opened in February after fifteen years of construction. The initial launch included complimentary rides for Torontonians.
For those needing to travel before the LRT begins service, the TTC’s Blue Night buses continue to operate, bridging the gap from 1 a.m. until approximately 6 a.m. or 7:30 a.m. on weekends and holidays.
Mayor Olivia Chow expressed her enthusiasm for the extended hours, stating that the Crosstown is becoming increasingly “trouble free.” She anticipates riders will wholeheartedly embrace the improved service.
The ongoing adjustments and additions signal a commitment to making the Eglinton Crosstown LRT a vital and dependable part of Toronto’s transit network, offering a convenient and efficient travel option for all.
