Metrolinx launches contest to name subway boring machines

Metrolinx has officially opened a public contest inviting residents to choose nicknames for the twin excavation units assigned to the Yonge North Subway Extension. The transit agency announced that online submissions will remain open until November 14 for eligible Ontario participants aged 18 and older who hold a valid email address. School classes can also enter group suggestions through their teachers under specific contest guidelines established by the agency.

The two heavy-duty machines measure immense lengths and feature rotating cutter heads designed to carve through complex underground soil and rock conditions. They will dig 6.3 kilometres of twin subway tunnels extending TTC Line 1 from Finch Station further north into Richmond Hill. Five new stations are planned along the expanding route at Steeles, Clark, Royal Orchard, Bridge, and High Tech to improve regional connectivity.

After the submission window closes next week, an official judging panel will narrow the entries down to a shortlist of six semi-finalists. Members of the public will then have the opportunity to participate in a final round of voting to select their favourite pair of names. Previous public naming contests organized by the transit agency resulted in popular monikers such as Rexy and Renny for the Eglinton Crosstown West Extension and Diggy Scardust for the Scarborough Subway Extension.

Contest participants whose names are ultimately chosen will receive official credit for the winning idea alongside a potential photo opportunity with the massive machinery at the launch shaft. Submissions must be completed through the online entry form provided on the agency website before the portal closes.

Agency officials noted that minors are permitted to participate only if a parent or legal guardian submits an entry on their behalf. The final winning monikers will be announced after public voting concludes later this year.