Toronto-based GO Transit unveiled initiatives to expand rail service and modernize its fleet of trains and buses. The agency will begin two environmental assessments (EAs) that will look at expanding its rail service into new communities.

The first will look at extending GO Train service from Oshawa to Bowmanville on the Lakeshore East line. The EA will look at additional track requirements, a station location, layover facilities and other infrastructure to accommodate this extension.

The Milton line is also being considered for more service. GO will undertake an EA to look at expanding to all-day service along this busy corridor, between Union Station and Milton GO Station. The EA will look at the possibility of adding two tracks along this line, as well as any required infrastructure. Both EAs will begin this summer, with completion scheduled for spring 2010.

Continuing its focus on expanding and modernizing its fleet of trains and buses, GO Transit is buying 25 new bi-level passenger railcars from Bombardier. The new railcars will be delivered by May 2010, bringing the total in the fleet to 482. The new railcars will collectively carry more than 4,000 passengers and be used primarily to expand Lakeshore East and West service with more 12-car trains, capable of carrying about 20 percent more passengers than 10-car trains.

Adding longer trains into service also requires more of GO's powerful MP40 locomotives. As a result, GO is exercising its option to buy 10 more MP40 locomotives, with delivery starting in late 2010. New locomotives provide added capacity, are more powerful and reliable, and meet the latest environmental emission standards.

"Continuing to build a more reliable and responsive transit system is a top priority," said GO Transit Managing Director Gary McNeil. "These proposed service  improvements and additions to our fleet will help us achieve that goal."