Metrolinx has reduced the scope of the Hurontario Light Rail Transit (LRT) project in an effort to control project costs, but has revised the contract language for the full scope of the project to be completed in the future.
“In order to offer riders a more convenient route and alleviate potential budget pressures on the Hurontario Light Rail Transit (LRT) project, changes to the scope of the project, recommended by Metrolinx, have been approved by the government of Ontario," Metrolinx President and CEO Phil Verster said.
The changes include the removal of the Mississauga city centre loop and the creation of a direct in-out access route from Hurontario to the Rathburn stop, located next to the MiWay Transit Terminal; deferring the pedestrian bridge at the Cooksville stop to be included in a future Transit Oriented Development between the stop and the GO station and changes to street-scaping along the corridor.
Metrolinx explains that under the revised scope, the Hurontario LRT will provide 18 kilometers (11.18 miles) of reliable rapid transit with 19 stops in a dedicated right-of-way. The Hurontario LRT will link the GO stations at Port Credit and Cooksville, the Mississauga Transitway, Square One GO Bus Terminal, Brampton Gateway Terminal and key Züm and MiWay routes.
"The changes have been designed to reduce project costs while still achieving the project goal of providing a fast, reliable and seamless customer experience between the new Hurontario LRT line, the GO Transit network, and the local transit systems," said Verster. "There are provisions in the contract language to adapt to future changes or additions to the LRT, including the completion of Mississauga’s City Centre loop and/or a potential extension into Brampton."
“Following today’s announcement from the Minister and Metrolinx, we are pleased that the Ontario government remains committed to this important project, including the promise to cover 100 percent of the costs needed to build the LRT. Our residents and businesses are depending on it, even with a reduced scope.
Mayor of Mississauga Bonnie Crombie said she understood financial pressures associated with the project, but reiterated the city centre loop will "help us realize the full potential of downtown Mississauga."
"The LRT is critical to our city’s future prosperity...Over the next 20 years, over 25 percent of our city’s population and employment will be located on this line," said Mayor Crombie. " The business case is one of Metrolinx’s strongest plans and will transform Mississauga today while helping us manage future growth."
She also noted that while the downtown loop may not be constructed as quickly as the city would like, other funding opportunities would be examined to build it at a future date.
"Our main focus is to build transit and get people moving. This project remains the largest investment in our City’s history and we are pleased that the provincial government remains committed to fully funding the building of the LRT," said Mayor Crombie.
Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown said the city of Brampton was excited that the project is proceeding and noted its potential to transform Hurontario Street into a vibrant people-oriented corridor, connecting communities and accommodating growth.
“Efficient transit is one of the city’s key priorities as defined by our residents. We are happy that this project has received a go-ahead. We are especially pleased to see the provision in the contract amendment for a potential extension into Brampton as we continue to explore all the possibilities for Phase 2, including the tunnel option that would lead to downtown Brampton GO,” said Mayor Brown.
