Improvements coming to TTC's 501 Queen streetcar service this weekend

With the completion of track and overhead work on Adelaide, Richmond and York streets, the TTC will improve 501 Queen streetcar service between Neville Park and South Etobicoke starting this Sunday, Nov. 10.

The TTC worked in partnership with Metrolinx and the City of Toronto to build the new tracks, allowing for a short streetcar diversion around Ontario Line construction at Queen and Yonge streets. The 501/301 Queen streetcar will operate along Queen St., diverting east via Adelaide St. and west via Richmond St., and connecting to Queen at Church St. and York St.

The diversion eliminates the need for TTC replacement buses in the area while providing 501/301 Queen customers with an uninterrupted connection to both sides of Line 1 at Osgoode and Queen stations and across the downtown core.

The new tracks also create additional streetcar diversion options in the downtown core for things like emergencies, events such as TIFF and planned streetcar infrastructure work.

“Making transit more efficient is a major priority for the City, and I am pleased that the TTC is able to restore 501/301 Queen streetcar service along the Queen St. corridor while Metrolinx works to build the Ontario Line,” said Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow. “We know that construction can be challenging for Torontonians, but the restoration of this service will make it easier for residents to navigate the downtown core.”

“The TTC, City of Toronto and Metrolinx continue to work collaboratively to improve transit in Toronto, while reducing the impact of construction on residents,” said TTC Chair Jamaal Myers. “I want to thank everyone who worked to get this long-term diversion in place and ensure that customers continue to have direct connections to Line 1.”

“Restoring the streetcar service on the Queen St. corridor not only allows for an uninterrupted customer journey but also improves efficiency for customers,” said TTC Interim CEO Greg Percy. “This routing allows for the restoration of service as close to Queen St. as possible, while making allowances for Ontario Line construction.”

“Vital transit improvements like this happen when all partners come together under a shared vision. We look forward to continued, close collaboration with our driven and dedicated partners at the City of Toronto and the TTC as we bring the Ontario Line and so many other important transit projects to life for the people who live and work in this dynamic city,” said Phil Verster, President and CEO of Metrolinx.

As of Nov. 10, the 501/301 Queen streetcar will no longer operate via Spadina Ave., King St. and Church St, and the 501B/301B replacement bus service will no longer operate.

For more details on these changes, visit https://www.ttc.ca/service-advisories/Service-Changes/501-301-Routing-change

Information about the Ontario Line is available at Metrolinx.com/OntarioLine