City Council decides public transit direction at special meeting

At a special meeting on Feb. 8, Toronto City Council voted 25-18 to affirm its support for a Light Rail Transit (LRT) priority plan for Toronto.

The plan, which was in effect in October 2010, is consistent with the Metrolinx “5 in 10” Plan and the early implementation of the Eglinton Crosstown LRT, converting the SRT to LRT and the Finch West LRT.

Based on motions presented by TTC Chair Karen Stintz, City Council approved continued discussions between the TTC and Metrolinx on the TTC’s delivery, operations and maintenance of the approved projects on behalf of Metrolinx.

Council also approved a motion to establish an expert advisory panel to examine transit and funding options for Sheppard Avenue and report back at a special Council meeting no later than March 21.

The panel will be represented by the TTC, Metrolinx, Toronto Board of Trade, Greater Toronto CivicAction Alliance, Toronto Women’s City Alliance, Social Planning Toronto, Sheppard East Village BIA, and specifically, David Crombie, Eric Miller and Dr. Gordon Chong.