Rainforest
Senior Member
Because the projection two years ago was for the Line 2 extension to Sheppard, while this is for the Line 2 extension to Scarborough Centre
The Crosstown East LRT should be having a big impact on the Scarborough Subway projections. Remember, the Crosstown East has projected peak hour ridership of 5,500 approximately. That's higher than Line 4, and nearly as high as the current Line 3. It should be diverting a large number of commuters away from the SRT/SSE.
Also consider that the stop at Lawrence for the Line 2 extension was removed.
Doubt that Eglinton East would have much effect on the SSE ridership, as they serve different catchment areas. Out of the LRT's forecast 5,500 peak riders, about 2,000 are already taking that route (buses); the Eglinton E bus corridor is very busy. The remaining 3,000 should come mostly from new development / densification along the route, as well as increased transit usage amongst the existing residents. For people living north of Lawrence, as well as for UofT Scarborough students, a trip on a bus to STC plus a subway ride would still be faster than the LRT trip, thus there is no much reason to switch to LRT.
You have a good point about the removed stations. I guess, the removal of Sheppard station can account for as many as 2,000 peak rides, and Lawrence East can account for about 1,000.
To me, that suggests that removing the stations is a pretty bad idea We are getting higher % loss in ridership than the % reduction in the construction costs.
Either all 3 stations should be restored, or the "surface" / SRT Corridor route for the subway should be re-examined.