Major construction has officially begun on the Bowmanville GO train extension, a long-awaited transit project that will extend the Lakeshore East GO line by approximately 20 kilometres through Durham Region.
Ontario Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria said the extension is expected to support about 17,000 daily trips once completed. Construction work includes rebuilding bridges, relocating utilities, and upgrading the Durham College Oshawa GO Station and the VIA Rail facility.
When complete, the Bowmanville GO train extension will offer two-way, all-day service and place more than 10,000 jobs within walking distance of transit. New stations are planned at Thornton’s Corners East and Ritson Road in Oshawa, as well as in Courtice and Bowmanville.
Durham Regional Chair John Henry called the project a major milestone for Oshawa and Clarington, noting it will improve connectivity, support housing growth, and help local businesses expand. While residents may experience temporary disruptions such as road closures and construction noise, officials say the long-term benefits will outweigh the inconvenience.
Metrolinx CEO Michael Lindsay acknowledged concerns over communication related to road closures, including the two-year closure of Simcoe Street, and said efforts are underway to improve outreach to businesses and residents.
Construction on the Bowmanville GO train extension is currently scheduled for completion by 2041, though Metrolinx says it is exploring opportunities to shorten that timeline.
