“Record number” of GO train trips to Niagara Falls expected due to eclipse
Published March 22, 2024 at 12:36 pm
Metrolinx is increasing service to Niagara Falls in anticipation of a record number of riders travelling to the area to watch the upcoming solar eclipse.
In a news release, the transit agency said it’s preparing to accommodate an influx of travellers hoping to see the rare astronomical event in the Falls (one of a number of cities on the path of totality) and those heading to Toronto to see the Blue Jays’ opening game and a Maple Leafs game.
According to the Canadian Space Agency, a total solar eclipse happens when the moon aligns perfectly between Earth and the sun, causing temporary darkness to sweep across parts of the country.
The eclipse will take place on April 8.
Metrolinx plans to add the following trips to accommodate travellers:
- On April 8, two extra trips are being added to the Lakeshore West line from Union Station to Niagara Falls. Trains will depart at 9:02 a.m., 10:02 a.m. and 11:02 a.m.
- Return trips from Niagara Falls will depart at 4:24 p.m., 4:54 p.m., 7:21 p.m. and 10:51 p.m.
- All trains to and from Niagara Falls will be 12 cars long to provide as much room onboard as possible.
- Regularly scheduled GO bus service will also be available for customers via Route 12 Niagara Falls/ Burlington.
Event Service for the Jays’ opening game and Maple Leafs’ game
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On April 8, there will be special event service on the Lakeshore West, Lakeshore East and Barrie lines:
- Lakeshore West: Two extra express eastbound trips will depart Oakville GO at 5:07 p.m. and 6:03 p.m. The 10:52 p.m. westbound trip to Niagara Falls will also depart 20 minutes earlier at 10:32 p.m. to help get customers home earlier.
- Lakeshore East: Extra westbound trips will depart Whitby GO at 4 p.m. and 4:38 p.m., and Durham College Oshawa GO at 5:25 p.m. and 5:55 p.m. We’ll also have an extra eastbound trip departing Union Station at 10:35 p.m.
- Barrie line: Some existing trips will be adjusted to accommodate extra late-night service for those returning home after the game:
- The 9:05 p.m. southbound trip from Allandale Waterfront GO will depart 50 minutes earlier at 8:15 p.m. to accommodate extra late-night service. The 8:54 p.m. northbound trip will not run.
- The 9:54 p.m. northbound trip will depart 15 minutes later at 10:09 p.m.
- A new special event train will run at 10:24 p.m., making all stops to Bradford GO.
- Replacement buses on routes 65 and 68 will also run.