Bridging the gap with new pedestrian bridges at Milliken GO Station

Recently, Steeles Avenue East was closed to safely install two new pedestrian bridges. New photos capture crews fitting all the pieces together during the overnight hours. Take a look.

After extensive planning and preparation, two new pedestrian bridges were recently lifted and set in place at Milliken GO Station.

The bridges, which cross over the new Steeles Avenue East underpass, will provide pedestrians and cyclists another route for getting safely to the station.

The structures each span over 50 metres in length and now rest alongside the new railway bridge.

*After rigging the bridge to the crane and performing the required safety checks, the pedestrian bridge is lifted up to the rail bridge for installation. (Metrolinx photo)*

How the bridges were installed

The work happened earlier this month while the roadway was safely closed to traffic.

Metrolinx’s contractor used a large crane to successfully hoist the two structures into place. Crews will now continue with concrete, glazing and roofing work on both bridges.

a crane installing a bridge over a road — The pedestrian bridges run parallel to the new rail bridge. (Metrolinx photo)

The underpass (a grade separation) at the Steeles Avenue East intersection is between Kennedy Road and Midland Avenue.

The project supports GO Expansion for future all-day, two-way frequent GO train service on the Stouffville Line.

By separating the road from the rails, vehicles can travel under the railway, without having to stop and wait for trains. The investment and improvements today will help bring faster and quieter trains to get people where they need to go.

Rendering of pedestrian and railway bridges over Steeles Avenue East. The pedestrian bridges will make it easier for cyclists and pedestrians to access services at Milliken GO. All renderings subject to change. — Rendering of pedestrian and railway bridges over Steeles Avenue East. All renderings subject to change. (Metrolinx image)

Milliken GO Station is right next to the new underpass and important upgrades are happening there, too. Upgrades include new track platforms, pedestrian tunnels, elevators, weather canopies, and lighting.

Metrolinx is making it easier for pedestrians on Steeles Avenue East to access GO services via stairwells and elevators that connect to the pedestrian bridges.

For more information or to subscribe for regular newsletters, visit the Steeles Avenue East Underpass webpage. Follow the project on Twitter @GOExpansion for progress updates.

Share questions with a dedicated Community Relations team by emailing TorontoEast@metrolinx.com.

Story by Teresa Ko, Metrolinx capital communications senior advisor