Metrolinx and Hydro One (co-proponents) recently concluded a virtual public update to the GO Rail Network Electrification Addendum. The website had 406 visitors and was the last round of public consultation for the addendum. As part of the process and in accordance with Ontario Regulation 231/08 (Transit Projects and Metrolinx Undertakings), today they have reached the file date for the Notice of Environmental Project Report (EPR) Addendum for the GO Rail Network Electrification Project.
The feedback collected during all rounds of public consultation is a critical part of the process and has helped inform our work. They have taken the feedback, comments and technical studies from the investigative and consultation phase to develop the Environmental Project Report Addendum. The Notice of Environmental Project Report Addendum marks the start of the 30-day public review period of the final Environmental Project Report Addendum.
The GO Rail Network Electrification Environmental Project Report Addendum has been posted on Metrolinx Engage and can be accessed below. The 30-day review period will begin tomorrow February 23, 2021 and continue through to March 24, 2021. During this period we encourage all stakeholders to read the report and share any questions and provide feedback to TorontoEast@metrolinx.com (East of Don River); TorontoWest@metrolinx.com (West of Don River); HaltonRegion@metrolinx.com; DurhamRegion@metrolinx.com; YorkRegion@metrolinx.com; Peel@metrolinx.com; or SimcoeCounty@metrolinx.com. They will be responding to all questions and comments made within the 30-day period as per the regulations. The public will also have the opportunity to provide any objections.
Once the 30-day public review is completed, the questions, feedback and responses will be provided to the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks for final review. The Ministry has a 35-day review period before issuing a Statement of Completion.
Additionally, Metrolinx also recently published this article that talks about why Metrolinx is looking at electrification which can be found here.
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