Toronto Wants You to Name Two Giant Subway-digging Machines
Toronto's next subway extension is getting ready to go underground, but before construction can begin, two enormous machines need something surprisingly simple.
Names.
Metrolinx has launched a public contest inviting residents to name the two tunnel-boring machines that will dig the tunnels for the Yonge North Subway Extension.
And yes, they're accepting creative suggestions.
The machines will excavate 6.3 kilometres of twin tunnels, travelling south from a construction site in York Region toward Finch Station.
The project will eventually extend TTC Line 1 approximately eight kilometres north, connecting Toronto to Vaughan, Markham and Richmond Hill.
Five new stations are planned along the route: Steeles, Clark, Royal Orchard, Bridge and High Tech.
What should we call them?
Metrolinx says suggestions can be inspired by local history, landmarks, famous people or anything meaningful to the community.
And because there are two machines, residents are encouraged to suggest matching names.
This isn't the first time Metrolinx has handed naming duties to the public.
Previous tunnel-boring machines have been named Rexy and Renny for the Eglinton Crosstown West Extension, Diggy Scardust for the Scarborough Subway Extension, and Libby and Corkie for the Ontario Line.
Now it's time for the newest pair.
The first machine has already arrived in York Region, where crews are assembling it inside a massive underground launch shaft. The second will follow.
Want to submit a name?
The contest is open until November 16, 2026, at 11 p.m.
Residents can submit their suggestions directly through the official Metrolinx website:
Once submissions close, a panel will select the finalists, and the public will get another opportunity to vote for their favourites.
The people who submit the winning names will receive recognition and may even get the chance to meet the giant machines at the construction site for a photo opportunity.
