A high-capacity rapid transit system designed for growth, accessibility and seamless regional integration
As one of Canada’s fastest-growing regions, York Region needed a transit solution that could keep pace with rising demand while connecting people to jobs, services and opportunity. Through the vivaNext program, AECOM has helped deliver a transformative bus rapid transit (BRT) system that is redefining mobility across the Greater Toronto Area.
AECOM serves as the lead firm in the York Consortium—a joint venture delivering program management, planning, and design-build services for the $1.8-billion Viva Rapidways system. Spanning 35 kilometres along key corridors including Highway 7, the system provides fast, frequent and reliable service across Vaughan, Richmond Hill and Markham, with seamless connections to Toronto’s subway network and other regional transit providers.
High-performance BRT with the ability to evolve
Designed as a premium transit solution, the Viva Rapidways system incorporates features typically associated with rail, including dedicated lanes, enhanced stations and improved passenger experience. Importantly, the system has been planned with future conversion to light rail transit (LRT) in mind, ensuring long-term adaptability as ridership grows.
An initial quick-start program established baseline services and stations across four corridors, laying the groundwork for phased expansion that continues today. Operating up to 18 hours a day, seven days a week, the Viva network improves mobility across multiple municipalities while supporting more sustainable transportation choices.
A gateway to transit: Bayview Towers BRT Station
As part of the Highway 7 corridor, AECOM was retained to design the Bayview Towers BRT Station, one of the system’s most distinctive architectural features. Positioned at the Bayview Avenue overpass, the station consists of two mirrored towers that act as a gateway between municipalities while providing critical vertical connections between street levels.
The towers address a significant grade difference between Bayview Avenue and Highway 7 below, offering fully accessible circulation through elevators, stairwells and a pedestrian bridge. Designed with transparency and visibility in mind, the glass-enclosed structures are bright, open and welcoming, enhancing the passenger experience while reinforcing safety.
Designing for people, safety and sustainability
The Bayview Towers reflect AECOM’s multidisciplinary expertise, combining architecture, engineering and urban design to create a cohesive transit experience. Key features include:
- Fully accessible design for all users
- CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) principles to enhance safety
- 24-hour video surveillance and emergency communication systems
- Natural daylighting and passive ventilation strategies
- Integration of Viva branding through form, materials and glazing
- Pedestrian bridge with wind protection
- Future-ready design accommodating public art
- Alignment with LEED design principles
AECOM’s Markham-based team delivered a full suite of services, including project management, architectural and interior design, structural, mechanical, electrical and civil engineering, as well as sustainability consulting, wayfinding, cost estimating and stakeholder engagement.
Advancing mobility across the region
The Viva Rapidways program represents a major investment in public transit, supported by federal, provincial and municipal funding. By improving connectivity across York Region and linking to the broader regional transit network, the system is helping reduce congestion, support economic growth and create more livable communities. Through innovative design and collaborative delivery, AECOM is proud to play a key role in shaping a more connected and sustainable future for the Greater Toronto Area.
