Part of Yonge Street could close for two years for subway work

A major section of Yonge Street could close to vehicles for nearly two years as Metrolinx builds a new subway station on the Yonge North Subway Extension.

According to a report from Toronto Transportation Services, extensive excavation for Steeles Station will require traffic suspension on existing roads during major construction phases. Yonge Street between Steeles Avenue and Madawaska Avenue could be closed from September 2028 to July 2030.

Construction is already underway in the area, with demolition beginning on the abandoned Hudson's Bay store at Yonge and Steeles to make room for the planned station. The Yonge North Subway Extension is a planned 7.4-kilometre extension of Line 1 north from Finch Station into Richmond Hill.

Steeles Avenue could also be affected, with lane closures, a reduced 40 km/h speed limit and temporary restrictions starting in June 2027 and lasting until March 2029. Nearby streets including Nipigon, Abitibi and Otonabee avenues could face temporary closures from September 2028 to July 2030, while Athabaska Avenue at Yonge would close from September 2028 to March 2029.

Disruptions are expected to begin well before the full closure. Starting in 2027, drivers could see lane reductions and turning restrictions along Yonge Street. Pedestrians, cyclists and transit riders will also see changes, with sidewalk closures, detours and adjustments to TTC operations. Some sidewalks could close as early as December 2026.

The proposed closures are not final. The item will return to North York Community Council on July 7 after Metrolinx consults further with the community on construction plans and their potential impact. The report is also asking City Council to give the General Manager of Transportation Services more power to make future traffic changes without requiring approval each time plans are updated.