Lifestyle

Altered GO schedules after Monday derailment, planners and riders adjust

GO Transit is running a modified schedule Tuesday after a Monday morning derailment removed a train and disrupted multiple lines. Riders should check schedules and allow extra travel time.

Altered GO schedules after Monday derailment, planners and riders adjust
Altered GO schedules after Monday derailment, planners and riders adjust
Copy link

By Torontoer Staff

GO Transit will operate a modified schedule on Tuesday after a train derailed Monday morning, taking several lines out of service and disrupting commutes across the region. The derailed train was removed from the tracks early Tuesday, and Metrolinx crews are repairing track and signal systems before full service resumes.
Metrolinx said the adjustments aim to preserve as many trips as possible on the busiest lines during peak periods. Riders are advised to consult the GO Transit website for specific trip times and to allow extra travel time.

What happened

Metrolinx reported that a Kitchener-bound train leaving Union Station experienced a problem around 8:16 a.m. on Monday, when the rear of the train came off the track and made contact with a track switch. No injuries were reported. Passengers on the train were safely transferred to another train shortly after the incident.

Repairs are underway on the impacted portion of track, and our teams are working to restore and test the signal system before full service can resume.

Metrolinx spokesperson
CityNews confirmed the derailed equipment was removed early Tuesday. Metrolinx also said an internal investigation has started to determine the cause, and results will be shared when available.

Service changes and what to expect

Metrolinx and GO Transit posted a lineup of adjusted frequencies for Tuesday. The modified schedule focuses on preserving peak trips on the busiest corridors while running reduced service outside rush hours.
  • Lakeshore East: 60 minute service outside of 15 to 30 minute peak AM and PM service
  • Lakeshore West: 60 minute service outside of 15 to 30 minute peak AM and PM service
  • UP Express: 30 minute service
  • Kitchener: 60 minute service outside of 30 minute peak AM and PM service
  • Milton: 30 minute AM and PM peak service
  • Richmond Hill: 60 minute AM and PM peak service
  • Stouffville: 30 minute AM and PM peak service
  • Barrie: 30 minute AM and PM peak service
An alert on the GO Transit website directs riders to the 'See Schedules' page for modified trip times and encourages allowing extra time to reach destinations.

Options and tips for getting around

The TTC said it will supplement service to support GO and UP Express customers during morning and afternoon rush hours. Transit users should plan alternate routes and consider a mix of options to avoid delays.
  • Check GO Transit’s 'See Schedules' page before leaving to confirm modified trip times
  • Use UP Express where available, keeping the 30 minute frequency in mind
  • Look for TTC supplements: extra express buses between Exhibition Place loop and Union Station on the 509 Harbourfront corridor, and additional buses on 505 Dundas connecting to Dundas West Station
  • Allow at least 15 to 30 extra minutes for transfers during peak periods
  • Consider GO replacement buses or alternate GO bus routes if your usual train is cancelled
  • If feasible, stagger travel times or work remotely until service stabilizes

We have confirmed that we will be running a modified service which solves for the maximum number of train trips on our busiest lines at peak periods.

Michael Lindsay, Metrolinx CEO
Commuters reported long waits and cancelled trips after the derailment. One woman told Breakfast Television that her husband and colleagues waited about one and a half hours for service to resume.

Investigation and next steps

Metrolinx has launched an investigation into the derailment. Lindsay said the agency will share findings transparently once available, and thanked staff who worked through the night on recovery and repairs.

Thanks to all the staff who have been supporting this effort throughout the day and will work throughout the night.

Michael Lindsay, Metrolinx CEO
Crews will also complete signal testing before restoring full service. Until then, expect a rolling pattern of modified schedules and short notice changes if repairs or testing uncover further issues.
Check GO Transit and the TTC X accounts for the latest updates before travelling, and plan extra time for connections as services return to normal.
GO TransitcommutingMetrolinxTTCToronto transit