I happened to be perusing Metrolinx GO RER business case, where they are making the case for a full-build RER plan. highlights of the scenario 5 plan include
Electrification to Aldershot, Oshawa, Bramalea, Barie, and Lincolnville.
Fifteen minute all day service to Aldershot, Oshawa, Bramalea, Aurora and Unionville, with hourly service to Hamilton, Barie, and Mount Joy
Bilevel EMU with 4-12 car trains.
two-man operation (down from three)
European style trains (apparently GO is only required to follow TC/FRA type rules on CN/CP owned tracks.)
$13 billion capital cost
Operating profits projected (188% farebox ratio)
3.1:1 benefit-cost ratio expected, with up to 10:1 for sub-components such as Lakeshore-East
This is an exciting plan to be moving forward, bringing modern regional rail to a north American railway, based on successful international models.