Region invites public to discuss "The Big Move" transportation proposals at Halton Region October 29

Expanded rapid transit and major advancements in GO rail service are among the proposed projects that will benefit Halton in The Big Move: Transforming Transportation in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area. The 25-year, $50 billion plan, released as a draft by Metrolinx, will be discussed at an Open House/Public Meeting in Halton on Wednesday, October 29, 2008.

Metrolinx representatives will be at the Halton Regional Centre Auditorium, 1151 Bronte Road, on October 29, for an Open House beginning at 5:00 p.m., followed by a Public Meeting from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. The public can also comment on The Big Move online, at www.metrolinx.com (on the Home page, click on the “Participate in our online consultations” button).

“This proposed plan is to connect us more easily with our surrounding areas and revitalize our communities with more options for travel that are both convenient and efficient for the individual, and that leave a softer footprint on the environment,” said Metrolinx Board Member and Halton Regional Chair Gary Carr. “Many of us experience the congestion on our roadways daily and know that the problem is getting worse. Halton needs an ambitious and bold plan like The Big Move to keep us moving efficiently, but more importantly to keep us close to our families and communities. We need people’s input to make this work.”

Infrastructure projects set out in The Big Move include:

• Faster, much more frequent GO rail service on the Lakeshore line between Hamilton and Union Station, and on to Oshawa
• New rapid transit, connecting Halton – as well as Hamilton and Peel – to the Toronto subway system, along Dundas Street
• New rapid transit along Trafalgar Road, between Highway 407 and midtown Oakville
• Two-way, all-day regional rail service between Georgetown and Union Station
• Two-way all-day regional rail service between Milton and downtown Toronto
• A new transitway connecting the Oakville GO Station, Mississauga City Centre and Pearson Airport, via Hwy 403

“This plan has the potential for a significant impact but we need to make sure it all fits together,” Carr said. “The Big Move is about more than just vehicles. It aims to create opportunities where you can take transit, ride a bicycle or walk. By integrating transit fares and providing the information you need, when and where you need it, your choices for the best way to travel will greatly increase.”

Residents are also encouraged to email Regional Chair Gary Carr directly, at gary.carr@halton.ca.

Metrolinx is a Crown agency of the Province of Ontario, operating within the legislative framework of the Greater Toronto Transportation Authority Act, 2006 and the provincial Growth Plan. For more information visit their website: www.metrolinx.com

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