The use of light rail on the Ottawa River Parkway is a pivotal issue that has not been properly addressed. It was the only route identified by Staff for this section of the new transit plan with no alternatives properly investigated. One Councillor has already said this is the only choice. The NCC has not ruled out its use however they suggest it should be considered a last resort.

As an environmental jewel, the Parkway should be protected and all viable alternatives considered even if it means a substantial route alteration. The use of rail on the Parkway is not only a risk to the character and quality of life of the impacted communities, and the entire national capital region, but also places the entire plan in a precarious position. All concern over this critical component of the western portion of the new plan has been referred to a future environmental assessment.

To compound the planning difficulties of this plan, the initial unconfirmed and rough estimate of over 4 billion dollars for the plan has since grown by many billions. There is no accurate cost currently associated with the project. As a Councillor who advocates fiscal prudence and sustainability, this plan appears to be unviable even with substantial funding from partner governments and private industry.

While I voted against the plan for the above reasons, I eagerly await additional information on the plan’s specifics from City staff. These will be available this fall and will detail the implementation plan including project selection, full cost-benefit analysis and proper examination of routes. I will work with my colleagues to ensure effective interim and secondary projects that can be advanced today that will provide new improved transit in a cost effective manner without harmful disruptions to the community.