For Media

Background materials, briefings, and resources for journalists covering the Lakeshore East rail corridor expansion.

Media Handout

One-page summary of what Metrolinx promised in 2017 and what was actually delivered. Designed for quick reference.

Media Backgrounder

20-page detailed companion document with promise-by-promise inventory, vibration data, barrier maps, and source citations.

Download Backgrounder (PDF)

Fence Sign Flyer

Printable flyer for the June 6 sign-making event at Stephenson Park. Distribute to neighbours along the corridor.

Download Flyer (PDF)

Media Handout

Media Backgrounder

Fence Sign Flyer

Key Findings

Promised

Monarch Park noise wall extension

Reality

Eight years later, no public confirmation it has been committed to or built.

Promised

~15 noise barriers east of Pape Avenue (BARR_022–BARR_044B)

Reality

Metrolinx's current public scope for this stretch lists retaining walls and culverts — not noise barriers.

Promised

Pre-construction noise baseline monitoring

Reality

Unclear how much pre-construction baseline data was collected.

Promised

Ballast mats at four switch locations (vibration up to 480% above threshold)

Reality

No public confirmation that ballast mats have been installed at any of the four locations.

Promised

Property damage claims process

Reality

No transparent adjudication process exists. Community groups report Metrolinx "seldom pays and has no defined process."

Promised

Compliance with Toronto Noise By-law

Reality

Metrolinx asserts that, as a Crown agency, it is not bound by municipal noise by-laws. Overnight construction continues.

Questions Worth Asking Metrolinx

Which of the noise barriers identified as technically feasible in the 2017 EPR have been constructed, and on what schedule for the remainder?
Has the Monarch Park noise wall extension been approved? If not, why not?
At each of the four switch locations identified for ballast mat mitigation (near R021B, R023B, R037B, and R043 — Main Station, Birchmount, and Scarborough GO areas), has this mitigation been installed?
What is Metrolinx's published process for residents to claim compensation for construction-related property damage?

Sources

Metrolinx, Lakeshore East Rail Corridor Expansion Environmental Project Report (Sept 2017, Segment 1) — §5.4, Tables 5-5, 7-3, 8-1, and Figures 5-7A through 5-7G. Metrolinx, Corridor Work — Lakeshore East Line (current public page for Pape–Kennedy infrastructure). City of Toronto Transit Expansion Division, Update on the Ontario Line Joint Corridor Noise Barrier and Retaining Walls (March 2024). Metrolinx LSE Joint Corridor Early Works CLC presentation (July 2025). Lakeshore East CAC and community records.

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