About Eglinton West Station
Eglinton West Station is a Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) transit hub in Toronto, Canada, and a gateway to nearby communities including Little Jamaica and Cedarvale. With the completion of the Eglinton Crosstown LRT (Line 5) in 2025, it is soon to be renamed Cedarvale Station. The station is an important interchange in Toronto’s transit network and was conceived as a modernist architectural landmark (Architectural Conservancy Ontario).
History
Early planning and vision (1960s–1980s)
During the 1960s, Toronto architects and planners sought to move beyond utilitarian transit design and create stations with civic and community significance. Eglinton West Station embodied that vision as a northern gateway and source of neighborhood pride (Architectural Conservancy Ontario).
Subway proposals (1985–1995)
Plans for rapid transit along Eglinton Avenue West took shape in the mid-1980s, including proposals for both a busway and a subway line. A subway project received funding briefly in 1994 but was cancelled the following year, delaying major transit improvements until the 21st century (Toronto.com Eglinton Crosstown Timeline).
Transit City and Line 5 Crosstown LRT (2007–2025)
The 2007 Transit City initiative revived the vision of rapid transit along Eglinton and led to the Crosstown LRT project. Despite construction delays, the new line is set to make Eglinton West Station a major interchange and further integrate surrounding communities into Toronto’s transit network.
What to see
Architecture and public art
Designed by Arthur Erickson Architects in partnership with artist Gerald Zeldin, the station is a modernist landmark. Its notable features include:
- Octagonal glass pavilion A distinctive structure that lets natural light into the station.
- Waffle-slab concrete roof A structural feature with visual interest.
- “Summertime Streetcar” murals Two-storey porcelain-enamelled murals celebrating Toronto’s streetcar heritage, visible from platform level (Architectural Conservancy Ontario).
The Cedarvale Monument
Situated near Eglinton West Station, the Cedarvale Monument commemorates Toronto’s transit development and community evolution. It honours Indigenous and settler histories and reflects the area’s layered heritage (Toronto Heritage Official Site).
The monument combines modern and traditional styles, with a central sculpture, historical plaques, and interactive kiosks offering archival photos, oral histories, and digital exhibits.
Little Jamaica
Stretching from Marlee Avenue to Keele Street, Little Jamaica is home to one of the largest Jamaican communities outside Jamaica. Established in the 1950s, it is known for Black-owned businesses, Caribbean cuisine, and a vibrant music scene (Wikipedia: Little Jamaica).
Places and experiences to explore include:
- Reggae Lane Murals and installations commemorating Toronto’s reggae music legacy.
- Caribbean eateries Jerk chicken, roti, patties, and other dishes (Destination Toronto: Little Jamaica).
- Black-owned shops Barbershops, music stores, and specialty retailers.
Practical visiting information
Station hours
Eglinton West Station is open daily from 6:00 AM to 1:30 AM, consistent with TTC subway service hours.
Tickets and fares
Standard TTC fares apply. Single-ride tickets and day passes can be purchased at station vending machines or online, and PRESTO cards are accepted. Upon opening, Line 5 will also use PRESTO for fare payment. For current fares, visit the TTC website.
Accessibility
The station has elevators, tactile wayfinding, audible announcements, and clear signage to support visitors with mobility or sensory challenges.
Getting there
The station is at Eglinton Avenue West and Allen Road. It is on TTC Line 1 (Yonge-University), with connections to buses and, with the Crosstown LRT, Line 5. Bike paths and walking routes connect the station to nearby neighborhoods.
Cedarvale Monument visiting information
The monument grounds are open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, free of charge. Guided tours run on weekends and public holidays at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Tickets cost $10 for adults and $5 for children and seniors, and are available online or at the visitor center. The site is fully accessible.
Virtual tours are available on the TTC website and Destination Toronto.
Tips
- For a quieter station visit, go during off-peak hours.
- Look out for public art installations inside and near the station.
- To reach the Cedarvale Monument, use Line 1 to Cedarvale Station or connecting bus routes.
Nearby places
- Cedarvale Park Trails, picnic areas, and scenic views.
- Eglinton Park A place for family outings and relaxation.
- The Annex Neighbourhood Historic homes, shops, and cafes.
- Oakwood-Vaughan and Humewood-Cedarvale Diverse, family-friendly neighborhoods with parks and local businesses (Wikipedia: Eglinton West Station).
- Fairbanks Summerfest An annual festival, alongside other street fairs that highlight the area’s multiculturalism.
The Crosstown LRT project has brought challenges as well as future opportunities. Community initiatives support local businesses and cultural preservation (Urbaneer: Little Jamaica).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are Eglinton West Station’s hours?
The station is open daily from 6:00 AM to 1:30 AM.
How do I buy tickets?
Buy tickets at station vending machines or online via the TTC website. PRESTO cards are accepted.
Is the station accessible?
Yes. Elevators, tactile guidance, and other features support visitors with accessibility needs.
What historical sites are nearby?
Nearby sites include Reggae Lane, the Cedarvale Monument, and heritage buildings along Eglinton Avenue West.
Are guided tours available?
Cedarvale Monument tours run on weekends and public holidays. Neighborhood walking tours may be offered seasonally.
