TTC working to repair damaged cables to restore streetcar service on Spadina Avenue

510 Spadina streetcars have been temporarily replaced with buses while crews replace damaged underground power cables that supply electricity to the overhead streetcar wires along Spadina Ave. Shuttle buses are operating between Spadina Station and Queens Quay, serving curbside stops to maintain service for customers, and additional staff are on hand at Spadina and Union stations, as well as the Queens Quay transfer point, to assist with wayfinding and transfers. Extra streetcar service has been added along the waterfront between Union Station and Queens Quay.

The damage was identified with reports of a cable chamber fire on the afternoon of Monday, Feb. 23. Repairs require the replacement of 640 metres of underground electrical cables running from Adelaide to Queen St. through multiple cable chambers along the Spadina corridor. Due to the location of the infrastructure, the work is complex and must be completed in confined underground spaces, requiring careful coordination, safety controls, and staged access to multiple chambers.

The cable replacement work is being carried out by contractor forces, supported by TTC staff. Work began overnight on Feb. 23 and is continuing around the clock. At this time, the repair is expected to be completed by the end of the week, though bus replacement service will remain in place until all testing is complete and the infrastructure is confirmed safe for streetcar operations.

The TTC is committed to keeping customers informed about work and events that impact service, as well as alternate route options. For the most up-to-date information, follow @TTCNotices on X or sign up for eAlerts.