Ford, Metrolinx ignore concerns with fantasy 401 tunnel

QUEEN’S PARK — Doug Ford may have his eyes firmly set on tunneling under Highway 401, but both the Premier and Metrolinx have been mum on what could be predictable, yet major viability concerns with this latest vanity project.

Internal documents obtained by the Ontario NDP through a Freedom of Information request have revealed Metrolinx covered up major problems with Scarborough Subway Extension tunneling when it reached the 401; including sinking issues that resulted in three weeks of road lane closures, and an eight-month pause for repairs to the tunnel boring machine.

“Doug Ford is obsessed with his 401 tunnel fantasy, but when you’re in a hole, the first thing you should do is stop digging,” said Shadow Transit Minister Doly Begum.

“Tunneling crosswise under Highway 401 was risky and complex enough. Ford’s plan to build a three-storey tunnel underneath it amplifies these concerns exponentially. We’re talking about the risk of highway collapse — lives are at stake.”

The Ford government confirmed last week that it had awarded the contract for a 401 tunnel feasibility study to WSP Canada Inc., paying them $9.1 million. The Conservatives have refused, however, to release already completed work on the project’s viability.

“Once again, Ontarians had to find out about these concerns through the media, or the Official Opposition. Ford continues to let Metrolinx keep secrets from the public with zero accountability, whether it’s the Eglinton-Crosstown LRT, or this ridiculous 401 tunnel idea. We need transparency around these taxpayer-funded projects, especially where safety is concerned.”