Clean Train Coalition Supports Motion on Air Rail Link

April 11, 2012

TORONTO – Today, Toronto City Council gave overwhelming support to a motion requesting the Government of Ontario to build the Airport Rail Link (ARL) as a frequent, affordable, multi-stop electric transit service for Torontonians. See http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewAgendaItemHistory.do?item=2012.MM22.12

We applaud this initiative by Councillor Frances Nunziata with strong backing from Councillor Mike Layton. This motion embodies the transit vision that we have heard from residents in the transit-deficient communities along the rail corridor, who want all levels of government to invest in clean, efficient and effective transit now. They published a joint op ed yesterday, presenting a solid case for the Province to consider: http://www.thestar.com/opinion/editorialopinion/article/1159406–province-has-to-come-on-board-to-help-with-the-air-rail-link-toronto-needs

Premier Dalton McGuinty has called upon Mayor Rob Ford and Toronto City Council to act together to set transit investment priorities. Here is an innovative example of how that can be done. At relatively little added expense, the revised, rapid transit-style ARL will deliver a quick win for Toronto and the Province by creating what amounts to an above-ground subway. This is a golden transit opportunity.

The CTC sent out a press release yesterday applauding Council’s vision and support for what we have been trying to achieve for many years. CTC Media Advisory 04-11-12

But in today’s Toronto Star, the Province responds to the Council’s motion of yesterday — and the proof is in the pudding: Council does NOT reign supreme when it comes to decisions about transit as the Province stated just a mere 2 weeks ago. See the article here: http://www.thestar.com/news/transportation/article/1159887–province-won-t-slow-airport-train-by-adding-more-stops

*************************

And coming up….

ALL ABOARD FOR THE CLEAN TRAINS FESTIVAL !!!!

The public is invited to join in the Clean Trains Festival on Saturday, April 28, from 1 to 4 pm along the West Toronto RailPath. The main stage for music and speakers is located at the west end of Wallace Avenue in the Junction Triangle. It’s a short walk north from Dundas West Subway Station to the Wallace Foot Bridge across the tracks.