metrolinx

Future Railpath, southbound at Bloor St.

Perhaps one of the most exciting bits of cycling news happening in Toronto (at least for a west-ender like myself) this year is the opening of the first phase of the West Toronto Railpath. This first section of the Railpath will be from Cariboo St., at the West Toronto Diamond (just north of Dupont/Annette/Dundas), down to the Dundas/Sterling/Lansdowne area (map).

A significant portion of the work was completed in 2008, including grading, new fences, bridge upgrades, and new staircases at Bloor and Dupont Streets. Hopefully the paving and landscaping will be finished in time for a big launch party during Bike Week in the spring.

As exciting as the Phase One launch is, it's now time to start pushing for the completion of the south-eastern section of the Railpath which would end close to downtown at around Strachan Ave. and King St. W. It's a bit of a long and detailed story, but the short version is: The City does not yet own any part of the rail corridor south of Dundas St., and they are waiting to purchase it from CP who of course don't want to give it up until issues like the Airport Rail service and GO Transit expansion are sorted out.

Metrolinx has a "bold" plan for the GTHA involving "Big Moves". At lest that's what it is selling.

Mississauga thinks that it is a yawner. And now that the province is broke, it's going to be time for broken promises, starting with running a deficit.

I spent all day Wednesday at the stakeholder meeting hosted by Metrolinx, where the special focus of the discussion was the financing. $50 billion is a lot to talk about!

Metrolinx, our former GTTA, released two "green papers" today. Both of them take an active interest in cycling as a commuting mode in the Greater Toronto Area.

The papers are available and the consultation is taking place through this website.

"Green Paper #2" looks at mobility hubs.

"Creating easier links between walking, cycling, auto use and public transit is a key element in improving people's ability to get around," MacIsaac said. "These hubs often foster vibrant employment and residential areas, and draw amenities such as entertainment, shopping and family services to their vicinity. This mix of land use and transportation can be mutually supportive and should be encouraged."

"Green Paper #3" is specifically interested in cycling and pedestrian issues.

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blockquote>"We have engineered walking and cycling out of many parts of our region