As part of the development phase of the GO Expansion project, Metrolinx has identified a new location for a future train layover facility near York Mills Road and Leslie Street. That means that the regional transit agency is abandoning its plans to build on a site in the Don River valley near the Prince Edward [Bloor] Viaduct.

The new site is on GO Transit’s Richmond Hill line in a light industrial area. According to Metrolinx, this location is near enough to Union Station to accommodate train movements, has available space and reduces service impacts on GO operations. The location also meets Toronto and Region Conservation Authority flood requirements and has less impact on the community and the environment, the agency says.

It also explains, “To enable rail service increases during design and construction of the new layover, the Rosedale Siding… (between Bayview Avenue and the Don Valley Parkway) will be used temporarily to stage GO trains during the day. GO Trains will be staged at the Rosedale Siding for about two hours in the morning peak period, and another two hours in the afternoon peak period.”

Metrolinx and GO plan to accommodate more passengers and increase service along GO’s rail lines, as part of their GO Expansion Program (formerly “regional express rail”).