680 News is reporting on the latest attempt by Metrolinx to fund their mass transit pipe dreams:
Metrolinx is asking drivers to pay more to fund transit expansion across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA).
The transportation agency handed over its funding report to Queen’s Park on Monday.
The 25-year, $50-billion Big Move plan includes:
- 1 per cent increase to HST (generating $1.3 billion/year)
- 5-cent/litre gas tax (generating $330 million/year)
- Parking space levy (generating $350 million/year)
- 15 per cent development charge
Metrolinx CEO Bruce McCuaig said that will generate $2 billion annually for the transit expansion plan.
“Metrolinx is recommending that we have dedicated funds,” he said.
“We are also recommending that these funds be placed into a transportation trust fund to create certainty that The Big Move projects are delivered and to provide the accountability and transparency GTHA residents demand and deserve.”
Someone really should do a version of “The Monorail Song” from The Simpsons for the light rail fan club in Toronto.
