McGuinty Liberal's bold new rapid transit plan to benefit Barrie, surrounding residents

BARRIE - The announcement by the McGuinty Liberals of a new rapid transit plan will result in more jobs in Barrie, reduce traffic congestion and improve the environment and is another example of the progress being made by the McGuinty Liberals, said Liberal candidate Aileen Carroll today.

"This is great news for the City of Barrie," said Carroll. "These transit investments will make a significant difference in the lives of the people who live and work in Barrie. More accessible transit means quicker commutes, less traffic congestion and better air quality."

Under the new transit plan, the Barrie would see:

- Expansion of service on the Bradford GO rail line extension to Barrie beyond the four daily trains expected to serve Barrie by late 2007

- Doubling the tracks to allow for more frequent service

MoveOntario 2020, a $17.5 billion rapid transit plan, is the largest transit investment in Canadian history. By 2015, two-thirds of the construction for MoveOntario 2020 will be completed, with nearly full completion of the plan in 2020.

The province is contributing up to $11.5 billion and is calling on the federal government to cover at least one third of the costs, expected to be $6 billion.

The province will cover the balance of the capital costs and the province and municipalities will continue to share operating costs through the provincial gas tax program. The Greater Toronto Transportation Authority has been asked to report back with an implementation plan for these projects by early 2008.

Ontario's plan calls for 52 rapid transit projects that will create 175,000 jobs during construction while reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the region by 10 megatonnes.

"While the Conservatives want to take Ontario backward, the McGuinty Liberals are moving Ontario forward by investing in our communities and in health, education, a cleaner environment and prosperity of our people," said Carroll. "There is still much progress to be made. We can't afford to turn back the clock, in Barrie or Ontario.