O’Connor Stop and its role
O’Connor Stop is a Line 5 Eglinton (Eglinton Crosstown LRT) station at Victoria Park Avenue and Eglinton Avenue East, serving residents and visitors to East York. Its opening was scheduled for September 2025. It will anchor the eastern stretch of Line 5 and connect neighbourhoods to Toronto’s rapid transit network.
The stop connects with TTC bus routes 70 O’Connor and 91 Woodbine, and offers access to Line 2 Bloor-Danforth via Coxwell Station. Its integration with future regional and rapid transit initiatives is intended to strengthen its role in the Greater Toronto Area’s mobility network (Amsterdam Urban Towns).
By supporting high-frequency transit and walkable infrastructure, O’Connor Stop encourages sustainable travel and reduces reliance on cars, aligning with Toronto’s environmental goals (City of Toronto: O’Connor Drive Improvements). City investments in watermain replacements, sidewalk and road reconstruction, and pedestrian safety upgrades are also intended to make O’Connor Drive safer and more attractive for all users (City of Toronto: O’Connor Drive Improvements).
Residential projects catering to transit-accessible lifestyles, including Amsterdam Urban Towns and 1165 O’Connor Dr Towns, reflect the area’s growth (Amsterdam Urban Towns; 1165 O’Connor Dr Towns). New businesses are also revitalizing the neighbourhood.
History
The area’s transit history includes the 70 O’Connor bus route, introduced in 1954 to replace earlier private bus services. It connected East York’s growing suburbs to Toronto’s city core and linked neighbourhoods along O’Connor Drive to major transit hubs, supporting post-war suburban growth (Transit Toronto: 70 O’Connor).
- 1950s–1970s The 70 O’Connor bus expanded to serve new neighbourhoods and adapted to Toronto’s changing fare and zone system.
- 1980s–2000s Early rapid transit concepts for Eglinton Avenue emerged, with significant plans developed in the 1980s and 2000s, notably under the Transit City initiative (Wikipedia: Line 5 Eglinton).
- 2010s–2020s Construction of the Eglinton Crosstown LRT began in 2011. O’Connor Stop was envisioned as a key surface station. Despite delays, the line was described as on track for a 2025 opening (Wikipedia: Line 5 Eglinton).
What to see
Image: The modern entrance of O’Connor Stop, showcasing accessible design and signage.
Visiting information
Hours and service
O’Connor Stop is described as operating daily, generally from 6:00 a.m. to 1:30 a.m., in line with standard TTC hours. Service frequency is designed for commuter convenience. Check the TTC website for up-to-date schedules.
Tickets and fares
- PRESTO cards The preferred payment option for travel across the TTC system. Cards cost $6 CAD and are available at stations, select retailers, and online.
- Day passes and single rides Day passes cost $13.50 CAD. Single-ride tickets can be purchased from station kiosks and authorized vendors.
- Mobile ticketing The TTC or PRESTO mobile app can be used for contactless fare payment and real-time updates.
- Transfers Transfers are free within a two-hour window when using PRESTO.
Accessibility
O’Connor Stop is described as fully accessible, with elevators, ramps, tactile wayfinding, and audible announcements. It meets TTC and AODA standards to support passengers with disabilities.
Events and tours
Regular guided tours are not currently offered, but community celebrations were planned for the opening of Line 5. Check the City of Toronto’s O’Connor Drive Improvements page and TTC announcements for updates.
Tips
- Construction updates Some sidewalk and lane closures may persist through 2025. Check city websites for the latest information.
- Parking Parking is limited; public transit or cycling is recommended.
- Safety Enhanced lighting and crosswalks improve pedestrian safety.
Nearby places
O’Connor area
- O’Connor Park A place for outdoor recreation and family activities.
- O’Connor Estate (Maryvale) A restored historical site offering programs and seasonal tours (Toronto.com).
- Senator O’Connor College School A local educational landmark.
- The area also includes local schools and community centers.
Todmorden Mills Heritage Site
A few minutes from O’Connor Stop, Todmorden Mills Heritage Site combines preserved 19th-century industrial buildings, Indigenous history exhibits, and environmental education. Located along the Don River Valley, the complex includes historic mills, nature trails, and interactive programs (Todmorden Mills Heritage Site).
- Hours Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.; closed Mondays and statutory holidays.
- Admission Free to the site and grounds; special exhibits may incur a fee.
- Highlights Historic mills and restored buildings, Indigenous exhibits and environmental programs, nature trails, and native plant gardens.
- Accessibility Paved paths, accessible washrooms, and designated parking.
- Visitor information Visitors can travel to the site by TTC or cycle. Guided tours are available seasonally. Leashed pets are allowed on outdoor trails but not inside buildings.
Mackenzie House Museum
Mackenzie House at 82 Bond Street was home to Toronto’s first mayor, William Lyon Mackenzie. The museum explores 19th-century life and the history of democratic reform in Canada (City of Toronto Museums).
- Hours Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.; closed Mondays and statutory holidays.
- Admission $10 for adults, $7 for seniors and students, and free for children under 12. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door.
- Exhibits and access Restored Victorian rooms, political memorabilia, and interactive displays. The museum is wheelchair-accessible and supports assistive listening.
- Tours Guided tours are available on weekends and by arrangement.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What are the opening hours of O’Connor Stop?
Approximately 6:00 a.m. to 1:30 a.m., in line with TTC service hours.
How can I buy tickets?
Use PRESTO cards, TTC vending machines, or mobile ticketing apps.
Is the stop wheelchair accessible?
Yes. It has elevators, ramps, and tactile guidance.
Are there guided tours?
There are no regular tours; special events may be scheduled for the opening.
What attractions are nearby?
O’Connor Park, O’Connor Estate, local schools, and community centers.
