Metrolinx contracted Four Seasons to complete an expansion and upgrade of the maintenance and storage facility at the former CN repair facilities. Expansion was necessary to store and service additional trains required by expanded Metrolinx service on the Lakeshore West line.

Key challenges included:

• Unanticipated site contamination. Four Seasons was required to remove 55,000 tonnes of contaminated material (several times more than anticipated) and source outside companies who could safely process it.
• Scheduling and coordination. The diverse skillsets, technical and legal requirements meant careful coordination of multiple trades and subcontractors for design and engineering.
• Live rail corridor—trains could not be delayed. Work was stopped and track cleared every time a train approached. Metrolinx provided flagging—trained individuals to monitor activity. This meant many work disruptions. Insufficient Metrolinx flagging personnel necessitated finding other ways to maintain safety and schedule. Only extended work window each day was between 2:00 AM and 5:00 AM
• No direct right-of-way approaching work site. The only approach to the site by road crossed through VIA rail yards, which was unknown at contract signing. Need to negotiate access agreement with VIA around VIA’s own scheduling needs.
• Safety orientation and training. Live rail, high voltage, contamination and various subcontractors involved had to be adequately trained to observe safety procedures on site. Scheduling, managing and verifying this training had to be developed by Four Seasons and coordinated with the overall project schedule.
• Lessons learned. Four Seasons developed a lessons learned document for use on future Metrolinx projects—a clear advantage for similar complex projects, and evidence of willingness and ability to work as a strategic partner.

Safety Record: No lost time accidents