The Pembina Institute supports Metrolinx’s transportation planning initiatives and its efforts to update its vision and priorities as part of a 5-year review of the Regional Transportation Plan (RTP). An effectively designed and implemented regional plan can ensure improved transportation options for Greater Toronto and Hamilton area residents, meaningful reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and improved quality of life as we grow our urban centres.
We support the vision and goals outlined in the draft RTP. However, we also think there are areas for improvement in the plan and in the broader governance structures that will ensure its implementation. Whereas the plan presents a long list of laudable actions, many are presented as “proposed” or “to explore.” While this might lead to further study, there are no mechanisms in place to ensure they are pursued, but urgent action is needed in the region. We outline our recommendations in this submission.
Also included is a letter to Ontario's Minister of Transportation, Steven Del Duca and the President and CEO of Metrolinx, Phil Verster. The letter outlines a number of concerns regarding the role of the province in the movement of goods, transit decision-making processes and governance structures in the GTHA that will not be resolved via the RTP.
