Ontario Line subway cost triples to $34 billion, transit agency head confirms

The projected cost for Ontario's ambitious subway project, the Ontario Line, has tripled since its initial announcement, ballooning to approximately $34 billion, according to Metrolinx President and CEO Michael Lindsay. This figure is triple the $10.9 billion cost estimated when the provincial government first unveiled plans for the subway line in 2019.

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The price tag so far for the Ontario Line subway is at about $34 billion, which is triple the government’s original cost projection.

Lindsay confirmed the current estimated price tag during a press conference, acknowledging that the final cost will likely exceed $34 billion. He cited the ongoing finalization of the elevated guideway contract as a reason for the projected increase. The transit agency head attributed the cost escalation to factors such as trade uncertainty and supply chain disruptions that have emerged since the project's inception.

When Premier Doug Ford's government announced the project, intended to run from Exhibition Place to east Toronto through the downtown core, the estimated cost was significantly lower. Lindsay defended Metrolinx's procurement process, stating the agency uses competitive bidding and scrutinizes line items to ensure efficient spending.

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When the project was announced in 2019 it was a different time and since then, trade uncertainty and supply chain shocks are adding pressure.

Despite assurances of efficient spending, opposition parties have voiced concerns. NDP Leader Marit Stiles expressed worry about the consistent cost overruns and delays associated with large transit projects in the province, suggesting a pattern of projects growing "out of control."

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large transit projects consistently grow “out of control” and are not delivered on time.