Rogers announced Friday that it has begun work on the next phase of expanding its underground wireless network for subway riders in Toronto.
The goal of this phase is to connect the remaining 75 per cent of tunnels – a total of 36 kilometres – so riders on the Toronto Transit Commission’s trains can connect seamlessly throughout their journey between stations, which have already been connected.
The expansion work began this week in the tunnels between Kennedy and Warden stations on Line 2, Rogers said in a press release, adding work is concentrated in the overnight and weekend construction windows to minimize disruption.
“Today’s announcement marks an important milestone in the expansion of cellular coverage to the rest of Toronto’s subway system,” Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow said in the release. “Transit riders and commuters deserve a safe TTC. Bringing 5G service to the unconnected tunnels is going to make a marked difference for transit users. Thanks to Rogers for leading the build, and to the TTC.”
In April 2023, Rogers acquired the cell network of BAI Communications, which had the exclusive rights to build the underground network. That network, however, could had Freedom Mobile on it and covered only 25 per cent of tunnels.
Rogers promised to plow millions into completing the build with enough capacity so other major carriers can ride on it to supply the broadest number of riders with 5G connectivity and 911 service.
In November, the cable giant announced that its 5G network was operational at all TTC stations.
