Purpose of this blog is to let readers know in advance about important issues on upcoming Council agenda and not to report what did transpire. I am making an exception as there was a presentation at July 8 Council meeting by Metrolinx to update Council on GO train expansion into York Region with focus on King City. As many of my readers are particularly interested in the latter I am writing this post to identify some key points.
From the speakers, Mirjana Osojnicki (Manager, Environmental Programs & Assessment) and Anthony Irving (Senior Manager, Community Relations we heard the following:
- confirmed target of 2025 for trains both ways every 15 minutes on double track
- new lot with 200 spaces to built on east side of track south of current one likely 2024; new multilevel garages not being build with exception. (Said cost per space is $65,000; two years ago at a Council meeting $40,000 was quoted.)
- no specific schedule plans for noise barriers and work at the street crossings to enable installation of the necessary gates to apply for whistle cessation;
- assessing potential of a “layover” in King City between Dufferin and Bathurst north of the track; such a facility is required somewhere in the northern portion of the Barrie line as a crewing centre and for waste management. Expect a draft report early 2020.
Comments/feedback from Council
- very disappointed that we are not seeing noise barriers yet, not even a plan
- very disappointed that there is still no specific schedule yet for double tracking and the modifications to the street crossing; re-iterated that the frequent trains with the whistles are a big problem for residents. Reviewed that we are anxious to collaborate with Metrolinx for the new gate structure at the level crossing.
- the parking is inadequate; suggested that they create the new lot earlier but only with gravel if that would speed it up.
- very concerned about the concept of a “layover” in King City; confirmed that there are no plans for municipal infrastructure in the identified area and that the area is characterized by important environmental features.
- I relayed recent complaints received about inadequate notification about the parking access, specifically that eff. July 1 a significant portion of north lot is now for reserved spaces. Also, I asked again why they will not implement technology to enable use of empty reserved parking spaces; such would provide some relief to the parking shortage.
Thank you, Debbie, for keeping us informed, although the information is disappointing. Nobody seems to be listening to our concerns at Metrlinx.