Toronto’s long-awaited Eglinton Crosstown LRT officially opened to the public on Sunday, February 8, marking a major milestone for both city transit and wireless connectivity. While riders are celebrating the new 19-kilometre route, Bell has confirmed it is the lead operator providing 5G and 5G+ service throughout the entire line.
The new network covers all 25 stations and the 10 kilometres of underground tunnels along Eglinton Avenue. In an email to iPhone in Canada on Monday, a Bell spokesperson confirmed the network is ready for all commuters, not just their own customers.
“As the lead operator, Bell enabled open access for all competitors starting on yesterday’s (Feb. 8) launch of the Crosstown LRT,” the spokesperson said. “The open access model ensures that every transit rider – no matter their provider – can stay connected across all 25 stations and underground tunnels.”
Commuters will have access to 5G+ speeds at nearly every station, with the exception of Laird, Science Centre, and Kennedy. Bell noted that reliable wireless service is “essential to rider safety and peace of mind,” allowing passengers to stay in touch with family or stream content while travelling underground.
The line is powered by a fleet of 76 Alstom Flexity light rail vehicles that serve the 25 stations and stops. These “Made-in-Canada” trains were manufactured and tested at Alstom’s facilities in Kingston, Ontario. Beyond the vehicles, Alstom is providing the cutting-edge signalling system designed to allow for safe and frequent service across the 19-kilometre line.
To ensure long-term reliability, Alstom specialists will provide end-to-end maintenance for the fleet. Early reports from opening day suggest a strong wireless signal remains consistent throughout the trip, a welcome change for Toronto riders who have long campaigned for better cellular access in the city’s transit tunnels.
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