The Ontario government has reaffirmed its support for London’s rapid transit plans, but has yet to release any information regarding funding for the initiative.
In the province's 2016 budget, which was tabled on Thursday, it was noted that London's rapid transit system remains a significant provincial infrastructure project. The government also says it is committed to cost-sharing the capital costs of the project.
“I see this as very positive. I am pleased the Ontario government continues to see our rapid transit initiative as a provincial project worthy of support,” says London Mayor Matt Brown in a media release. “Ongoing discussions with our partners at both the provincial and federal levels have been extremely productive, and our continued cooperation will ensure a truly transformative result for London and Southwestern Ontario.”
However, concerns have been raised due to the province's reluctance to commit to the city’s request for 33% of the funding for the rapid transit initiative.
During question period at the Ontario Legislature on Wednesday, London-Fanshawe MPP Teresa Armstrong demanded the province include the funding in the budget. She believes the province has been given enough information from the city to make a decision.
Transportation Minister Steven Del Duca responded by saying that it’s too soon to approve specific funding and the province is awaiting a detailed business case from the city.
The city’s rapid transit initiative is also currently undergoing an environmental assessment to determine routes and transit modes.
During a visit to London last Friday, Premier Kathleen Wynne was vague when asked about provincial funding for London’s rapid transit plans. She says the project is on the radar of the minister of transportation and the minister of infrastructure.
“I believe it is a live discussion in London right now in terms of putting a business case together,” says Wynne. “We are committed to working with communities on local transit solutions.”
The planned 22-km rapid transit system will connect many of London’s key institutions. The proposed $880-million project would also integrate with other forms of transportation including rail, air, and active transportation networks.
-With files from Scott Kitching and Miranda Chant
