Tory made the remarks along with Prime Minister Doug Ford, Ontario Transport Minister Caroline Mulroney and Federal Transport Minister Omar Alghabra at Exhibition Place during the formal renovation of the nearly 16-kilometer subway line.
“It’s a matter of great concern to me,” Tori said of the disruption to local businesses.
He said the intersection of Queen and Yonge streets, in the heart of the center’s core, is expected to be closed for years due to the project.
“We will work with these companies, we will work with Metrolinx and the Ontario government to make sure they get some support,” Tori said.
Tori acknowledged the pain that businesses along Eglinton Avenue have suffered as a result of the construction of the LRT and promised to “do better” in terms of caring for businesses along the Ontario line.
“I think the first thing we did was to be direct with people … there will be upset. And we just have to fix it.”
Ford said the public consultation will continue with the companies during the manufacturing process.
“We have consulted with business owners and will be there to support them,” Ford said.
The 15-stop subway line is expected to run from Exhibition Place, through the city center core and finally to the Ontario Science Center.
Metrolinx says the project-related capital cost is $ 10.9 billion and the county has previously said the new crossing line is scheduled to be operational by 2030. Speaking to reporters Sunday, Phil Verster, president and CEO Metrolinx consultant did not confirm whether this is still the scheduled date for the opening of the metro line.
“For decades, governments in every lane have been talking about the need for a new subway in the GTA,” Ford said Sunday.
“Finally we are the government that succeeded. Today we are shoveling the ground for this once in a lifetime project.”
Ford said the subway line is expected to bring $ 11 billion in economic benefits to the city of Toronto and the GTA and will significantly reduce congestion in the current subway system.
“We want to see an end to overcrowded subway stations and subway cars,” Ford said.
