Mace, Comtech and SYSTRA awarded Delivery Partner contract for largest transit infrastructure program in Canadian history

Mace, Comtech and SYSTRA, working as the MCS consortium, are pleased to announce it has been awarded the contract of Program Delivery Partner to support Metrolinx’s GO Expansion program.

MCS will establish a program level management regime to integrate all aspects of the GO Expansion program through the development, implementation and continuous improvement of program-wide systems, processes and procedures in order to support ‘Best for Program’ decision making, subject to Metrolinx’s governance, policies and procedures.

MCS will be integrated as delivery partners with Metrolinx to manage this complex program of works, which includes new stations, electrification of existing lines, installing new rail lines, upgrading existing stations, signalling, and more. The Program Delivery model brings skilled external partners into the Metrolinx team, to collaborate in managing integration and delivery of major projects through all phases.

The 10-year rail infrastructure program, GO Expansion, is Metrolinx's largest and most ambitious endeavour to date and aims to expand the GO Transit rail service. With a long-term vision of providing two-way, all-day service, every 15 minutes or less on core segments of its rail network, Metrolinx will provide increased connections between communities.

As an infrastructure program, GO Expansion will support the growing regional economy through job creation and improved connectivity, unlocking investment and urban development in the province of Ontario. The combination of cleaner, electric trains and more people using metro-style transit will also significantly improve air quality in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area.

Together, the three firms will draw on their individual strengths for the benefit of the program. Mace will leverage British expertise from the mobilization of large integrated teams on the HS2 program at Euston Station in London as well as Birmingham New Street Station, and from its successful role as a delivery partner for the London 2012 Olympic Games

In equal measure, Metrolinx will benefit from Comtech’s experience delivering multiple mandates within Metrolinx’s capital projects portfolio and expertise in program delivery and information system management, along with French engineering firm SYSTRA’s extensive international track record in rail construction, operations, and maintenance.

Jason Millett, CEO of Consultancy, Mace

“We are delighted to be awarded the PDP contract with our partners SYSTRA and Comtech. This is a truly transformative program of huge global significance to Mace Consult, as we continue to grow our infrastructure offering in North America in line with our 2026 business strategy.

"By combining Mace’s extensive delivery partner expertise with SYSTRA’s local and international rail technical expertise, and Comtech’s in-depth local project and program management knowledge, we are creating a winning formula for delivering on Metrolinx’s vision. We look forward to supporting the delivery and being part of a journey that will leave a world-class legacy in Canada.”

Davendra Dabasia, Managing Director for International Consultancy, Mace, said:

“GO Expansion is a game-changer for Mace’s international business. Our delivery partner journey began with the London 2012 Olympics, and our experience from other major programmes has proven how well the model works. Together with our partners, we are now well-placed to continue this journey, strengthen our position in the infrastructure market in North America, and further our expansion in Canada. It will be fantastic to mobilise our talented people from around the world on this once-in-a-lifetime programme, which will serve to enhance the lives of millions in the province of Ontario.”

Andrew Philip, Executive Vice President, Transportation & Infrastructure, Comtech Group

"We are excited to be extending Comtech’s long-standing commitment to Metrolinx delivering this program alongside our partners Mace and SYSTRA. Our team's combined expertise in integrated program delivery, project controls, and rail technology will support Metrolinx as they embrace this new partner delivery model."

Dave Spagnolo, CEO of SYSTRA Canada

"We are delighted to be part of this Metrolinx project with our partners Mace and Comtech. As an international engineering firm with extensive experience in transportation systems and a strong presence in Canada, we are proud to be part of the team that will deliver this ambitious project for Metrolinx. Together, we will combine expertise, innovation and a focus on user needs to provide the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area with the most sustainable infrastructure possible."

Stephanie Davies, Executive Vice President GO Expansion, Capital Projects Group, Metrolinx

“Metrolinx is continuing to unlock regional growth through investment in the GO Expansion program. We look forward to working with MCS as our program delivery partner to oversee and coordinate all station and corridor work, integrating multiple GO Expansion projects for more seamless management and delivery of infrastructure upgrades and new construction. The complex work being delivered throughout our network will be tied together to create greater value for current and future riders, and deliver on our promise of a more connected, more sustainable GTHA.”