The new Finch West subway station is progressing well, with large portions of the station structure complete. Continuing challenges with completing the necessary utility and road work on Keele Street are delaying the reopening of the road.
The closed portions of Keele Street – southbound, for a 100-metre section south of Finch Avenue West, and one block between Finch Avenue West and Four Winds Drive – are expected to be reopened on Monday, Sept. 15.
The extended closure in this area is required to complete the necessary project work on multiple utility connections.
Finch Avenue West will remain open during this period, and access to local businesses on Finch will be maintained.
Detour route open throughout closure
The detour route via Murray Ross Parkway/Tangiers Road/Toro Road will be open throughout this period for traffic to bypass the closed area (see map below). Detour signs will be posted to redirect through traffic to alternate routes. Motorists can expect to experience traffic delays in the area during this time.
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.
TTC bus routes
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.
Pedestrian access/walkways
There may be periodic closures of pedestrian pathways, and alternate routes will be provided. Pedestrians should follow the posted signs and take extra care when walking near or around construction areas.
Construction work hours
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 spring and summer.
Finch West Station construction work is permitted under the noise bylaw from 7am to 11pm, seven days per week. The contractor also has an exemption to the noise bylaw for major civil works outside of these hours until May 1, 2015. Construction notices will be sent out before extended work hours begin to keep residents and businesses informed.