Community News

RAPID TRANSIT DREAMS BEGIN FOR SIMCOE STREET

JENNIFER O'MEARA jomeara@durhamregion.com

Oshawa is envisioning a rapid transit future for Simcoe Street.

The Region of Durham and the City of Oshawa are working together on a Simcoe Street Rapid Transit visioning study.

The street study will look at how to improve mobility and quality of life for current residents, while preparing the corridor for future growth. It will examine ways to assess rapid transit investments, looking at the possible benefits of rapid transit and transit-oriented communities.

The area being considered for rapid transit is the busiest stretch of Simcoe Street in Oshawa; from Highway 407 in the north to Olive Avenue in the south. The route connects Highway 407 to the site of the future Ritson GO train station — running past Ontario Tech University, Durham College, Lakeridge Health Oshawa Hospital and downtown Oshawa.

Simcoe Street is identified in the Metrolinx Regional Transportation Plan as a light rail transit or bus rapid transit route by 2041. The Region of Durham Master Plan recommends higher order transit along Simcoe Street by 2031.

Residents have a chance to offer feedback to help the consultants assess the demand for rapid transit along Simcoe Street in Oshawa.

The region will host the first virtual open house on Wednesday, Sept. 28 from 6 to 8 p.m., with an opportunity for residents to ask questions and provide comments.

The vision study report, including suggestions for appropriate rapid transit infrastructure, is expected to be completed by early 2023.

To learn more, visit SimcoestreetrapidTransit.ca or email Simcoe@durham.ca.

NEWS

en-ca

2022-09-29T07:00:00.0000000Z

2022-09-29T07:00:00.0000000Z

https://communitynews.pressreader.com/article/281530819900429

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