NDP demands Wynne government include London rapid transit funding in provincial budget

Today Teresa Armstrong, NDP MPP for London-Fanshawe, demanded the Wynne Liberal government include funding for London’s rapid transit plan in the upcoming provincial budget.

“London is the largest city in Canada without a rapid transit system. London is ready to put its money on the table. But the City needs a provincial funding partner,” Armstrong said.  “Will this week’s budget include a commitment to fund London’s rapid transit program, beginning next year?”

During a visit to London last Friday, Premier Wynne would not commit to funding London’s rapid transit plan, despite London City Council’s unanimous agreement to support a $1.1 billion investment in rapid transit.  The Mayor of London told a legislative finance committee that transit use in London has nearly doubled since 1998 and continues to grow, and has requested provincial funding. 

“London’s mayor asked for a one-third contribution from the provincial government.  Will this week’s budget include funding for this important rapid transit project?,” Armstrong said.

The provincial government has pledged $15 billiontowards transportation infrastructure outside the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area, but little of this money has started flowing. The provincial budget will be tabled tomorrow.

This week, Armstrong met with the London delegation at the OGRA/ROMA Conference, and they said they have not received an answer back from this government.