A downtown transit project could close a portion of Queen Street for almost five years.

In a Toronto Star report, a statement from Metrolinx says the proposed closure between Bay and Victoria Streets would last roughly from May of 2023 to November 2027 and is necessary for the work required to build an Ontario Line station beneath the TTC’s existing Queen subway stop.

The transit agency says while building a new subway stop in such a dense area will inevitably present challenges, it will also deliver major benefits.

Although Metrolinx is leading construction of the Ontario Line, lengthy road closures require the approval of Toronto City Council. The plan is expected to go to councillors in November.