City of Toronto/Toronto Transit Commission

TTC Streetcar Signal and Overhead Systems, Russell Carhouse, 2015 Leslieville

Beacon Utility Contractors Limited was hired to upgrade the aging electrical infrastructure and caisson foundations at the TTC’s Russell Carhouse, located at Queen Street East and Connaught Avenue in Toronto.

The job had a tight turnaround time, and was commissioned during the reconstruction of the streetcar yard and access roadway. Because so many projects were happening simultaneously, there were a large number of contractors working in a small area at the same time.

Our team worked closely with the general contractor to establish project milestones with the other contractors, so all jobs could complete on time and with minimal interruption. We also optimized our small workspace by coordinating supplier deliveries to arrive “just in time”, preventing unnecessary stockpiling and ensuring quick installations.

Although a substantial collection of ground water created poor conditions for deep excavation, we had the right equipment on hand to overcome this obstacle and keep the project moving.

Thanks to a large coordinated effort by all parties involved, we finished the streetcar signal and overhead system to the client’s complete satisfaction.