Toronto's long-awaited Eglinton Crosstown LRT finally opened its doors 15 years after construction began, but the journey to this moment has been fraught with challenges. The line, which was set to revolutionize public transportation in the city, faced numerous setbacks, including construction delays and budget overruns. Despite these obstacles, the first train departed from Kennedy station at 7:40 a.m., marking a significant milestone for the city. However, the opening was low-key, with no grand ceremony or commemorative merchandise, reflecting the TTC's pragmatic approach. The 25-station line is free to ride today and will gradually increase its service levels over the next six months. Premier Doug Ford dismissed calls for a public inquiry into the project's troubled rollout, citing the mistakes made during construction. A report from Metrolinx, the provincial transit agency, revealed that the project incurred a cost of over $13 billion. This controversial decision to move forward without a full inquiry has sparked debate, leaving many to wonder if the lessons learned from this costly delay will be applied to future projects. The Eglinton Crosstown LRT's story is a reminder that even the most ambitious infrastructure projects can face significant challenges, and the journey to completion is often more complex than anticipated. But here's where it gets interesting: despite the setbacks, the line is now a reality, and its impact on Toronto's public transportation system will be significant. Will the lessons learned from this project be applied to future endeavors? The answer lies in the comments below. What do you think about the Eglinton Crosstown LRT's opening? Do you think a public inquiry would have been beneficial? Share your thoughts and join the discussion!
