TTC begins testing service on Line 1 extension

This Sun., Nov. 26, the TTC will enter the final stages of testing on the Line 1 extension with the beginning of so-called 'ghost service' between Sheppard West and Vaughan Metropolitan Centre stations.

Starting this weekend until full service starts on Dec. 17, trains will off-load customers at Sheppard West Station then continue north, stopping at all new stations. From Vaughan Metropolitan Centre Station, trains will return south, simulate regular service and pick up customers at Sheppard West Station on its way to Finch Station.

This testing gets the TTC closer to the completion of the 8.6 kilometre extension as the TTC prepares to operate both an extension to Line 1 and introduce a state of the art signalling system - the first in Canada.

TTC operators will use the next three weeks to become familiar with the extension and its new features like ATC, ensuring service is reliable when the extension opens. Trips will also be timed for service planning purposes and, if needed, adjusted to maintain service levels.

Also beginning this Sunday, the way customers board and exit trains at Sheppard West will change. Customers will exit on the northbound side of the platform and only be able to board on the southbound side. Station staff will set up barricades and direct customers to help them adjust to the change.

The Line 1 extension features six, modern, bright, energy-efficient stations all equipped with the TTC's new fare gates with PRESTO. It is the first time a TTC subway will cross regional municipal boundaries.

The extension is jointly funded by the government of Canada, province of Ontario, the City of Toronto and the Regional Municipality of York.