Part of major Toronto street might close for years for new subway construction

The potential closure of a busy intersection could have a significant impact on drivers as crews build a new subway station over the next few years.

According to a report from the Interim Deputy General Manager of Toronto Transportation Services, extensive construction will take place beneath the intersection of Yonge and Steeles as Metrolinx builds Steeles Station on Metrolinx's Yonge North Subway Extension, a planned 7.4-kilometre extension of Line 1 north from Finch Station into Richmond Hill.

Because of the sheer size of the excavation needed to build the station, the report states that traffic must be suspended on the existing roads during major phases of construction. As a result, Yonge Street, between Steeles Avenue and Madawaska Avenue, could be closed to vehicles from September 2028 to July 2030. 

A temporary diversion road could be built west of Yonge Street. Once traffic is shifted onto that road, the existing Yonge Street roadway between Steeles Avenue and Madawaska Avenue will be closed for construction.

Construction is already a mess in the area, as demolition just begun on the abandoned Hudson's Bay store at Yonge and Steeles to make room for the planned subway station.

Steeles Avenue could also be affected, with lane closures, a reduced 40 km/h speed limit and temporary restrictions starting in June 2027 and lasting until March 2029. 

But the disruptions are expected to begin well before this closure. Beginning in 2027, drivers could expect a series of changes along Yonge Street, including lane reductions and turning restrictions.

YNSE Steeles Station Construction Stage 1 Photo: Metrolinx

Nearby streets could also be affected. The report is proposing temporary closures on Nipigon Avenue, Abitibi Avenue and Otonabee Avenue from September 2028 to July 2030. Athabaska Avenue at Yonge Street would also be closed from September 2028 to March 2029. 

The project won't just impact drivers. Pedestrians, cyclists and transit riders could also see changes, with sidewalk closures, detours and adjustments to TTC operations, according to the report.

For pedestrians, some sidewalks could be closed as early as December 2026, including Yonge Street between Madawaska Avenue and Athabaska Avenue, and Yonge Street between Nipigon Avenue and Steeles Avenue.

The report is also asking City Council to give the General Manager of Transportation Services more power to make future traffic changes for the project without having to return for approval every time plans are updated.

Construction and road closures are nothing new for Toronto residents, with projects shutting down road access across the city every day. But a closure affecting such a busy part of Yonge Street could cause some serious headaches for commuters, businesses and really anyone who travels through the area.

The proposed closures aren't final yet. The item will return to the North York Community Council on July 7 after Metrolinx has had more time to consult with the community on the construction plans and their potential impact.