Project Profile: Hamilton B-Line Light Rail Transit

The Hamilton B-Line Light Rail Transit (LRT) is a 14-kilometre, 17-stop rapid transit line under construction, designed to form the east-west spine of the city’s future public transportation network. As the foundational corridor of the B-L-A-S-T network, this project integrates directly with regional GO Transit services, providing a high-capacity, dedicated-guideway solution to foster urban density and reduce traffic congestion along the critical Main/King corridor.

Technical Specifications

The B-Line LRT operates on a dedicated right-of-way, ensuring minimal conflict with vehicular traffic and maintaining consistent service reliability. The system will be serviced by a fleet of modern Light Rail Vehicles (LRVs), operating at a peak frequency of every four minutes. The 17 stations are designed for level-boarding accessibility and integration with local bus routes. All infrastructure, including the trackbed, catenary systems, and signaling, is being built to withstand Hamilton’s climate and support high-frequency operations from 5:30 AM to 1:30 AM daily. A dedicated Operations, Maintenance, and Storage Facility (OMSF) will be constructed to manage vehicle stabling, servicing, and system-wide control.

Key Takeaways

• Economic Catalyst: The project is a major driver for transit-oriented development, attracting investment and intensifying land use along the Main-King corridor, particularly in the downtown core.
• Network Integration: As a critical component of the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA) transit plan, the B-Line provides a vital connection to the GO Transit rail network, improving regional mobility.
• Foundation for Future Growth: The B-Line serves as the inaugural phase of the ambitious B-L-A-S-T network, establishing the technical and operational precedent for future rapid transit expansion across Hamilton.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When will the Hamilton B-Line LRT open?

With major construction underway, the Hamilton B-Line LRT is projected to commence operations in late 2029. This timeline is subject to construction progress and system testing schedules.

Who is building the Hamilton LRT?

The project is being delivered by the provincial agencies Metrolinx and Infrastructure Ontario, in partnership with the City of Hamilton. A private sector consortium will be selected through a Design-Build-Finance-Operate-Maintain (DBFOM) procurement model to complete the final design and construction and to operate and maintain the system long-term.