Toronto's Line 2 subway is going to get much faster

The TTC's delay woes might soon be a thing of the past, thanks to a new modern signalling system that's set to be implemented along Line 2 in an effort to increase capacity and reduce signal-related setbacks.

On Wednesday, the transit agency announced it has awarded a contract to Hitachi Rail Canada to install Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC), also known as Automatic Train Control (ATC), which automatically controls train speed and spacing.

Under this system, train locations can be monitored more precisely, allowing for more vehicles to operate closer together, which, in turn, would mean more frequent and efficient service for transit users.

"We're proud that our world-leading technology, designed in Toronto, will transform passenger experience, reliability and increase capacity on Line 2," said Arnaud Besse, Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer, Hitachi Rail in Canada.

"Today, our invention comes home. 50 years ago, we developed this technology here and exported it to the world's most complex transit systems. Now, it returns to where it all began."

The modern signalling system, which has been operational on Line 1 since 2022, is also set to replace Line 2's existing fixed-block technology. The technology is used in major transit systems around the world, including London Underground's Four Lines Modernization program, New York City's Flushing Line, as well as Singapore's North-South and East-West lines.

The technology is set to be designed, tested, and delivered from Hitachi Rail's Canadian headquarters, which is conveniently located right here in Toronto.

Work on the project will kick off this year, and initial design and engineering activities will follow suit through 2028. Implementation of the new signalling system is set to take place in phases, and the project is currently scheduled for completion in 2037.