New South Platform – Platform 26/27

Providing more capacity during construction and added flexibility for the future, the new platform has created much-needed elbow room.

The additional platform provides more capacity for a variety of needs. Long-range plans tell us that this platform will be needed to handle the increasing number of trains using the station. And whenever we have to stop using existing tracks during construction, we will have this new platform to maintain levels of service.

The platform is fully accessible with an elevator and mini-platform as well as nine sets of stairs. Improvements to the adjacent Platform 24/25 included adding five new sets of stairs and relocating the elevator.

The new platform is south of the train shed and has a canopy and snow melting system.

Construction of the platform also includes a new south entrance to Union Station, which will open early in 2010. Union Plaza will now be directly accessible from the exits to the VIA concourse from platform 26/27.

Overall Target Completion Date: October 2009

• Construction started in September 2006.
• The platform was opened to the public in May 2009.
• As construction in the station progresses, this platform will be more fully used.
• The completion of this project will allow the train shed roof construction to begin without affecting service levels.