Metrolinx’s Decision to Close Elevators at Danforth GO Station Raises Accessibility Concerns
Metrolinx has announced the closure of all elevators at Danforth GO station for a three-month period to facilitate major repairs and upgrades, sparking concerns among riders and advocates about accessibility.
The closure, set to begin on September 8, will affect all three elevators at the station, with services not expected to resume until late November. While platform one can still be accessed via a ramp connecting to Main Street, platforms two and three, located between tracks, will only be reachable via a flight of stairs.
For passengers from areas south of the station, the only accessible entrance will be through stairs at the north side of Ted Reeve Arena. The underground tunnel connecting platforms and the southern entry will remain open, while crossing the rail corridor via the Main Street bridge will be necessary for other passengers.
During the closure, there will be no alternative accessibility options available, with Metrolinx recommending travelers to use Scarborough GO station as an alternative.
Concerns have been raised by frustrated commuters, including one individual who highlighted the personal impact of the closure on their family’s daily commute to work and daycare.
The closure has also reignited discussions on congestion and accessibility issues at Danforth GO station, with advocates emphasizing the need for better accessibility measures and redundancy in place.
David Lepofsky, chair of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Committee, expressed strong disapproval of the closure, emphasizing the importance of equal access to transit services for individuals with disabilities.
Metrolinx defended the simultaneous closure of all three elevators, stating that it minimizes overall disruption and allows for quicker restoration of service, despite the inconvenience caused to passengers.
