Toronto Transit Commission’s (TTC) Russell Carhouse

Located in Toronto’s east end, upgrades to the TTC streetcar yard included the construction of a new acoustic noise barrier along the property line adjacent to the Leslieville neighborhood. As part of its commitment to reducing noise and vibration impacts on nearby residents, the TTC engaged with the community on the design of the approximately 160-metre noise wall.

The final solution incorporated absorptive precast concrete noise barrier panels with a natural stone pattern, along with a graffiti-resistant coating to help maintain the wall’s appearance over time. In several sections, the noise barrier was also designed as an integrated retaining wall, allowing a single engineered system to provide acoustic performance while supporting earth retention requirements on both the residential and track sides.

With streetlights and streetcar poles incorporated into the wall design, maintaining natural light transmission was another important consideration. Transparent acrylic noise barrier panels were integrated into the upper portions of the wall, providing a window-like effect while allowing light to pass through the structure. The transparent sections also helped the project meet the City of Toronto’s light-to-structure requirements, while bird-impact deterrent markings were incorporated to support bird-safe design requirements.

The result is a multifunctional transit noise barrier system that brings together noise mitigation, earth retention, light transmission, community aesthetics, and site-specific infrastructure requirements within a single solution.