Eglinton Crosstown LRT Finally Set to Open February 8 After Years of Delays
After years of setbacks and mounting frustration, the beleaguered Eglinton Crosstown Light Rail Transit system appears poised for a full public opening on February 8, 2026. Premier Doug Ford made the announcement during an unrelated news conference at Queen's Park on Monday, expressing both relief and optimism about the project's completion.
Premier's Announcement and Project History
"Thank God it's opening," Ford told reporters, acknowledging the extensive challenges that have plagued the transit line. "They've done hundreds of thousands of kilometres of testing and it's going to finally get finished. I'm happy it's done. That's all I can tell you because it's been a nightmare for all of us, I'm first to admit, but it's going to be incredible."
The premier revealed that TTC officials had advised him of the February 8 opening date as a "goal," marking what would be the culmination of one of Toronto's most problematic infrastructure projects in recent memory. The Eglinton Crosstown LRT has faced numerous delays, budget overruns, and technical issues since construction began, testing the patience of commuters, residents, and politicians alike.
Confirmation and Official Response
A source with direct knowledge of the project confirmed the February 8 opening date to the Toronto Sun on Monday night, requesting anonymity while providing crucial details about the planned launch. According to this source, the opening is expected to be a full operational debut of the entire LRT system, with formal announcements and specific details scheduled to be released in the coming days.
However, official channels maintained a more cautious stance. When contacted for confirmation, Metrolinx did not immediately respond to inquiries about the opening date. Meanwhile, TTC spokesperson Stuart Green stated in an email that "TTC and Metrolinx continue to work toward an opening and a date will be announced at an appropriate time."
Green declined to elaborate on what remaining tasks or approvals must be completed before an official opening date can be confirmed, leaving some uncertainty about the final preparations.
Project Significance and Community Impact
The Eglinton Crosstown LRT represents a transformative transit investment for Toronto, spanning 19 kilometres across the city with 25 stations connecting Mount Dennis in the west to Kennedy Station in the east. Once operational, the line is expected to significantly improve east-west transportation across mid-town Toronto, reducing congestion and providing faster, more reliable transit options for thousands of daily commuters.
The project's completion comes after what Ford described as a "nightmare" process that has tested the resolve of all involved parties. From construction disruptions affecting local businesses to repeated postponements that left residents skeptical, the Crosstown LRT has become emblematic of the challenges facing major urban infrastructure projects in Canada.
As Toronto prepares for what appears to be the final chapter in this long-running transit saga, attention now turns to the operational details, safety certifications, and community preparations necessary for a successful February 8 launch.
