Modified service on Lakeshore East GO train line continues following death of worker in Pickering

Modified service on the Lakeshore East GO train line is expected to last through the weekend following the death of a contract worker near Pickering GO on Saturday.

Metrolinx says work to repair and clean up the scene has been complicated for workers, correcting at least two rail vehicles, including the car that killed the 41-year-old worker at Rouge Hill Bridge.

“The work to repair the damaged track is much more extensive than initially expected, and work continues throughout the weekend. That means modified services continues through the weekend — we will keep people updated,” Metrolinx spokesperson Anne Marie Aikins said in an email to CityNews.

“We will also continue to service every station, and we are making plans for the events like [Toronto] Raptors, [Maple] Leafs and Argos to make sure fans can get to games. And some regular commuters may even discover they are surprised with a free coffee on us to thank them for their patience during this difficult time.”

For Lakeshore East customers, GO transit runs a half-hour service to all stations along that line using a combination of trains and buses. Shuttle buses are being used to bridge the gap between Guildwood and Pickering GO stations.

“The job is taking dozens of people and involves righting at least two rail vehicles that toppled over on Saturday night,” Metrolinx said this week. “When lifting occurs, experts create an exclusion zone to ensure everyone stays safe. It is an area around the lifting operation where people are excluded, other than the ‘riggers’ — experts setting up the lines — and machine operators.”

Trip times for customers between Oshawa and Rouge Hill, travelling to Union Station in Toronto could also be delayed by about 30 minutes.