Transit-Oriented Communities…

Transit-Oriented Communities Act (ERO 025-0504)
Summary: The proposed legislative amendments are intended to streamline the planning and delivery of the Transit Oriented Communities (TOC) program. Changes would include expanding the TOC definition and removing approval when entering into transit-oriented community agreements with municipalities and building partners.
This proposal expands the scope of priority transit projects beyond the current definition, which is focused on the Ontario Line, the Scarborough Subway Extension, the Yonge Subway Extension and the Eglinton Crosstown West Extension.
The expanded scope would include all provincial transit projects that Metrolinx has authority to carry out, including expansion or improvements to the GO Train system. This will mean that all these projects will be exempt from the provisions of the Expropriations Act that permit a hearing of necessity to be requested. Additional permit requirements for development near these projects will be required, and additional powers are given to the province/Metrolinx on lands within 30 metres of transit corridors.
Comments: At the present time, Metrolinx has not established a train station or rail line connection to Cambridge. This Act will be monitored for potential future application should plans for a rail link be approved.