Metrolinx released its investment strategy for more than 400 kilometres of new and improved transit, as well as repairs to roads and highways, as part of The Big Move transportation plan for the Greater Toronto and Hamilton area (GTHA).
The Big Move’s next wave of projects include a new light rapid transit in Mississauga, Brampton and Hamilton; new bus rapid transit in Halton, Peel, Toronto and Durham; subway expansion with the Relief Line and the Yonge Subway Extension into York Region; major enhancements to GO Transit and improvements to municipal transit projects, roads and highways, and active transportation options.
To secure funding for the next wave, Metrolinx has suggested a one per cent increase to the HST, regional fuel and gasoline tax at five cents per litre, a business parking levy, development charges amendments, high occupancy toll lanes, pay for parking at transit stations and land value capture.
“Metrolinx is recommending that we have dedicated funds,” said Bruce McCuaig, Metrolinx president and CEO. “We are also recommending that these funds be placed into a transportation trust fund to create certainty that The Big Move projects are delivered and to provide the accountability and transparency GTHA residents demand and deserve.”
Robert Prichard, chairman of the Metrolinx board of directors, said congestion is getting worse every day and it is having an increasingly negative impact on our quality of life and the region’s economy. “We need to continue to invest in The Big Move and get the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area moving again,” he said. www.bigmove.ca
