Toronto Councillor Leads Rally Demanding Public Inquiry for Eglinton Crosstown LRT
A rally was held recently in Toronto to demand a public inquiry into the Eglinton Crosstown Light-Rail Transit (LRT) project, which has faced significant delays and cost overruns. Councillor Josh Matlow, representing Toronto-St. Paul’s, led the event alongside elected officials, transit advocates from TTCRiders, and members of the transit workers’ union ATU Local 113.
Rally Details and Demands for Inquiry
The rally took place at the intersection of Yonge Street and Eglinton Avenue W. Matlow emphasized the urgency for answers regarding the LRT project’s issues, stating, “There have been years of delays and a billion dollars in cost overruns.”
- Date of Rally: Recent Saturday
- Location: Yonge Street and Eglinton Avenue W.
- Key Speaker: Councillor Josh Matlow
- Attendance: Approximately 50 people (as reported by Toronto Police)
Impact on Communities and Local Businesses
Numerous speakers at the rally expressed concern for the community’s welfare. Liberal MPP Stephanie Smyth mentioned that taxpayer contributions have not led to visible progress in the project, adding that “it’s wrecked communities.”
Local community leaders, including Aniyka Mark of the Little Jamaica Community Land Trust, criticized the construction’s impact. Limited parking and reduced bus stops have significantly affected local accessibility and businesses.
Government Response and Future Prospects
In response to the rally, a spokesperson from the provincial Ministry of Transportation highlighted investments aimed at overcoming previous delays. Hannah Jensen stated that the Ford government had made strides to bring the Eglinton Crosstown LRT and the Finch West LRT to substantial completion after years of neglect.
Statements from Transit Workers’ Union
Marvin Alfred, the president of ATU Local 113, commented on the frustrations expressed by customers. He emphasized the need for transparency and support for frontline workers during challenging operational periods.
Completion Timeline and Current Status
Metrolinx, the project management agency, reported substantial completion of the Eglinton Crosstown LRT as of December 5. They conducted a successful passenger operation simulation involving 1,000 staff members with no safety-critical issues identified.
The opening of the LRT is tentatively scheduled for February 8. However, this date has been met with skepticism due to previous delays in the project timeline, which originally aimed for completion in 2020.
Community Sentiments
Community members expressed mixed feelings regarding the ongoing delays. Volunteer Wilkie Whale stated that the prolonged wait has caused substantial frustration, urging for solutions to prevent similar future occurrences.
The Eglinton Crosstown LRT project, which began construction in 2011, is a critical transit initiative aimed at enhancing connectivity across Toronto. The community continues to hope for a resolution and a commitment to reliable transit service.
