Toronto Environmental Alliance

Maps show suburbs lose out on "Backroom" transit deal

Yesterday, we released maps comparing how much light rail transit could be built with the $8.7 Billion committed by the Province. The maps compare the current Metrolinx plan with a proposed compromise plan developed behind the closed doors of Mayor Ford and Premier McGuinty’s offices. Click here to read our media release.

The proposed compromise plan will deliver half the transit promised in Metrolinx’s plan for the same $8.7 Billion cost, unfairly leaving the suburbs out. TEA’s maps show that the Province’s $8.7 Billion can either build 52 km of new light rail transit serving 460,000 Torontonians or 25 km of new light rail serving 217,000 Torontonians.

Whatever plan is eventually brought forward, Torontonians across the city have been clear that they want real public consultations on transit expansion, followed by a vote on these plans at City Council. 

If you haven't already done so, please email your City Councillors, the Mayor and the Premier to let them know you support the Transit City light rail plan. Click here to send an email.

In an earlier CouncilWatch, we highlighted the service cuts and delays proposed by Mayor Ford in the 2011 budget. The budget passed, and in terms of waste diversion, this means delays to the roll-out of green bins to City-served high-rise residences, delays and cuts to the new Reuse Centres across the City and delays in upgrades to the Green Lane Landfill.

Mayor Ford has made it clear that he wants to privatize all aspects of waste collection and handling, and the delays in the budget are a symptom of his unwillingness to invest in diversion and long term waste management.

It's important to note that while more residents of high-rise buildings in Toronto will soon have access to organics pick up, many others won't because they are served by private collection services. These private companies that serve high rise residents are not required to provide the same level of waste diversion as residents served by city collection services. That means that many Toronto residents have no choice as their recyclables and green bin material end up going to landfill.

TEA is committed to fighting for diversion and waste reduction across Toronto. We will work to protect the great diversion programs we've fought for over the last ten years. Watch for more updates and information soon!