CANADA: Infrastructure Ontario and Metrolinx have issued a request for qualifications for a contract to design, build, finance, operate and maintain a light rail line in Hamilton. A request for proposals is expected in mid-2017.
The 11 km east-west B-Line would link Queenston Circle and McMaster University, serving 14 stops. Opening is expected in 2024.
The project would use Infrastructure Ontario’s Alternative Financing & Procurement model, which transfers risk to the private-sector contractor.
In May 2015 Ontario announced that it would invest up to C$1bn in the project. The following year Metrolinx awarded CH2M, Boxfish, Comtech and Turner & Townsend a programme management consultancy contract covering the Hamilton amd Hurontario and light rail projects; AECOM has a seven-year contract to provide advisory services.
A previously proposed 2 km light rail branch would now form part of a 16 km bus rapid transit route linking the Hamilton waterfront and Hamilton International Airport, following feedback received in public consultations.
