smallspy
Senior Member
Single-point switches, when used correctly and with equipment that has been designed for their use like that in Toronto, is no more or no less safe than double-point switches. And in fact, in many ways it is easier to operate and maintain as there are far fewer moving parts.The entire TTC streetcar network currently uses single point switches instead of dual point switches like what is in place on the subway network as well as the Eglinton and Finch West LRTs. I believe as derailments can occur more frequently with this style of switch due to the switching direction not being easy to reliably verify at speed, it was decided to have the streetcars stop before proceeding to try and lower the number of incidents. This is combined with the fact that there are numerous track switches throughout the downtown core, which can make for a sluggish trip.
I wouldn't rule out excessively padded round trip times which would intentionally slow down operations for operations sake, but that's more of a system-wide issue that mostly affect heavier-used bus and streetcar routes alike.
The stop-and-stay ruling for all facing point switches dates back to a couple of rather nasty derailments that took place about 15 or 20 years ago because of a number of operators not taking enough care while operating, and not specifically due to the equipment installed. That, and the fact that the control system used for the operation of the switches is old and need of replacement has gotten us to where we are now.
Dan