The new Finch West subway station is progressing well, with large portions of the station structure complete. Construction has reached a point where significant work must be done across Keele Street to remove traffic bridges, install utility connections and backfill over the station structures, resulting in two closures on Keele Street this summer.
One block of Keele Street, between Finch Avenue West and Four Winds Drive, will be closed to all traffic from July 7 to August 31.
Keele Street southbound, for a 100-metre section south of Finch Avenue West, will be closed from July 7 for about two weeks. The closure is necessary to allow multiple utility connections and to remove the temporary bridge. Finch Avenue West will remain open during this period and access to local businesses will be maintained on Finch Avenue West.
The detour route via Murray Ross Parkway/Tangiers Road/Toro Road will be open throughout this period for traffic to bypass the closure area. Detour signs will be posted to redirect traffic to alternate routes. Motorists can expect to experience traffic delays during this time. The map below shows the detour route in both directions.
Map showing Keele Street summer closures and detours
Note that trucks are not permitted on Keele Street south of Murray Ross Parkway or on Broadoaks Drive or Catford Road. Advance signage will be provided. Motorists are asked to obey all signs.
Transit delays may be experienced on 36 Finch West, 107 Keele North and 41 Keele. Northbound and southbound bus routes that normally travel on Keele Street will use the detour route. New bus stop locations are shown on the map above.
There may be periodic closures of pedestrian pathways, and alternate routes will be provided. Pedestrians should follow the posted signage and take extra care when walking near or around construction areas.
The City of Toronto has approved a noise bylaw amendment for major transit projects, allowing contractors to work extended hours and on weekends for the duration of the project, when required.
Extended work hours are expected to be in effect in the Keele/Finch area this summer. Finch West Station construction work is permitted under the noise bylaw from 7am to 11pm, seven days per week. The contractor has applied for an exemption to the noise bylaw for major concrete pours this summer for work outside of these hours. Construction notices will be sent out before extended work hours begin to keep residents and businesses informed.