On track: GO Lakeshore East Extension to Bowmanville moves forward

Big news for transit riders, commuters and communities across Durham Region—Metrolinx has officially broken ground on GO Transit’s Lakeshore East Extension to Bowmanville, marking a major milestone in the province’s plan to reduce gridlock and expand access to fast, affordable and reliable transit.

This transformative project will extend the GO Lakeshore East line 18.7 kilometres farther east from Oshawa into Bowmanville, bringing GO train service to residents and connecting thousands of people to housing and job opportunities.

By 2041, the GO Lakeshore East Extension is expected to support 17,000 daily trips and 4.9 million annual boardings, offering residents more choice, convenience and connection.

Once complete, the project will deliver:

• Two-way, all-day service
• Trains every 30 minutes during peak periods
• Hourly off-peak service
• Trains every two hours on weekends

All of this means more flexibility, shorter commute times, and easier access to work, school and fun.

Phase one construction underway

In January 2026, Metrolinx has awarded the major construction contract for the Bowmanville Extension. The first phase of construction includes upgrades to Durham College Oshawa GO Station and the VIA building, bridge reconstruction and modifications, and utility relocations. Future phases will add new tracks and signals; new bridges, including a rail bridge over Highway 401; and improved road crossings.

Current work includes:

• Replacement of the Simcoe Street bridge and demolition of associated properties.
• Demolition and construction of a fully accessible Farewell Street pedestrian bridge.
• Preparatory clearing and grubbing work at Albert Street, Wilson Road, Farewell Street, Grandview Street and Green Road.
• Construction of a Chimney at 500 Howard Street as a compensation habitat for chimney swift birds.

Supporting local businesses during construction

While Metrolinx is at work to build bridges, shift utilities, and prepare the corridor, businesses along the construction route, including Simcoe Street in Oshawa between Avenue and Albany streets, remain open.

Local shops, services and restaurants continue to operate as usual—and they need community support now more than ever.

Residents are encouraged to shop local, dine local, and show support for the businesses that help keep Durham’s neighbourhoods vibrant. Your support helps ensure that these businesses thrive today and continue to benefit from improved transit access in the future.

With 10,400 jobs projected to be within walking distance of transit, the extension will strengthen local economies and support long-term growth throughout Durham Region.

What this means for you

Whether you commute, travel within Durham or want better access to amenities, the GO Lakeshore East Extension promises a smoother, greener and more convenient way to move around the region.

With shovels in the ground and work underway, the future of transit in Durham Region is on track to go east.

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