Since 2006, Strasman has worked with TTC to undertake improvements within existing subway stations for compliance with TTC’s Second Exit Upgrade Program, Easier Access Program, and Fire Ventilation Upgrades. We have been involved with improvements at six subway stations, including Castle Frank, Wellesley, Warden, Spadina, and Old Mill.
TTC Wellesley Fire Ventilation & Second Exit Program
Strasman was responsible for full architectural design services and design coordination of the multi-disciplinary consultant team. Scope of design for overall site
development included building services, landscape design and integration with
existing site conditions.
Design challenges at Wellesley Station included integration of second exit services and structure with the main station and tunnel, as well as with the neighbouring properties. In particular, portions of the second exit were coordinated with a proposed condominium development adjacent to the site. The project included a new set of access stairs to the platform level and a connection tunnel above the subway box
structure linking each of the platforms. The connection tunnel extends from the box structure to an adjacent development, where the ground level entrance and exit are integrated into the proposed condominium.
TTC Spadina Station Easier Access Renovation
As part of TTC’s Easier Access Program, two new elevators are being added to Spadina Station to improve passenger access to the northbound and southbound platforms. The project includes creating a barrier-free path, including ramps, to connect the platforms, elevators, and underground concourse. along with improved signage and wayfinding, improved CPTED features including security cameras within the station. The design for the project accommodated unique elements, including space limitations within the station and surrounding area, existing infrastructure including adjacent buildings and underground services, and a focus on maintaining important components of the surrounding mature neighbourhood. The project involved the demolition of existing escalators while maintaining one in operation throughout construction, as well as the addition of a new structure on the west side of the station to accommodate a new staircase and elevator outside of the existing tunnel structure. Coordination with simultaneous construction at the neighbouring school required the staircase and addition to be relocated and redesigned to respond to evolving site conditions. The project required that service in the station be maintained throughout the renovation.
TTC Old Mill Subway Station Easier Access Renovation
Old Mill Station has a subway track / platform level with side platforms serving eastbound and westbound trains, a concourse level, a street level entrance with Presto fare line, collector’s booth, retail area, electrical rooms, employee washrooms and cleaners’ room. The station was built in 1968, prior to barrier free design standards and code requirements. As part of TTC’s Easier Access program, the Old Mill Station was renovated to provide:
- Two new two-stop forward-motion elevators and associated support spaces that provide access from the street level to platform levels and ensure improved & accessible connections (AODA compliant)
- Strategies for new and/or improved intuitive wayfinding
- Design in consideration of CPTED for passenger safety
- Upgrades to the overall commuter experience through the quality of spaces and provision of views to the surrounding neighbourhood
TTC Warden Station
Easier Access and Second Exit throughout the Warden Station required the redevelopment of the bus terminal, the Passenger Pick Up and Drop Off (“PPUDO”) and surface parking areas. Additionally, the retail spaces, station paid and unpaid areas and fare lines were re-configured. The work was phased to accommodate on-going operations, ensure safety for passengers, and minimize impact to traffic in the surrounding areas.
