I used the Parkside Drive entrance up to the eastbound platform last week with 90 lb Black Lab. He enjoyed the southern landing (top of lower steps, passage splits opposite ways for east and west bound platforms) because he was almost able to swim across, it was so flooded. Don't know if that structure is TTC or City, but they're going to have to establish drainage or resurface the concrete. It had ice forming on it that day, it was slightly below freezing, and I have healthy footing, but for someone unsuspecting, it could be tragic. That underpass and entrance need attention badly. Concrete is spalling and rebar is rusting.
Platform still had construction notice posted: "Hard hat and boots must be worn in this area...etc...".
What struck my curiosity is the wheel wear on the rails. It was an extremely narrow contact area worn, perhaps half an inch wide if that. One of the differences between LRT and higher speed passenger rail is the profile, and matching bogie wheel profile. Perhaps they've yet to grind the track, but it looked like heavy rail profile as is. Streetcar ride was very smooth on it, and I didn't notice any 'hunting' (which the PCCs were very prone to along stretches like that) so perhaps that differentiation is disappearing with more modern bogie design and rail head profile?
One can't help but think this is how the King Street Pilot should be, and run through on this stretch, some day. But alas...
A point on the stub-end storage spur at the loop: Pantos make reversing out of such stubs equally easy either direction. With a pole, it was always advised, where possible, for someone to hold the lanier rope, especially going through catenary junctions to stop it fouling and causing other mayhem. Maybe storage stubs will be back in vogue?
