DontCutMeOff.net – an operation supported by the Gardiner Coalition, of which OTA is an active member – launched a public campaign today backing the so-called hybrid solution for Gardiner East.
Dontcutmeoff.net urges City Council to vote for the hybrid solution on June 10 and maintain the vital connection between the Gardiner Expressway and the Don Valley Parkway, rather than an at grade-level highway. The coalition includes the Ontario Trucking Association, CAA South Central Ontario, Toronto Industry Network, Redpath Sugar and the Financial District Business Improvement Area.
“We urge Torontonians to visit dontcutmeoff.net and tell their local Councillor that the hybrid solution is the best investment for the future of Toronto,” said Stephen Laskowski, Senior Vice President of the Ontario Trucking Association and coalition spokesperson. “The hybrid solution will keep people moving and open the most possibilities for new economic development, all while ensuring the least amount of disruption.”
Laskowski added: “Simply put, the remove option would create traffic chaos in this city. The hybrid solution has a minimal impact on commuters, improves a major transportation artery through the heart of Toronto and ensures businesses and families experience less delays travelling to, from and through the downtown core. Toronto is in a congestion crisis; now is not the time for City Council to make it worse.”
Improving the long-term health and vibrancy of Toronto depends on a revitalization of the Gardiner Expressway, above and below its decks, for the benefit of all Torontonians. Our city will have the best chance of making that happen with a hybrid solution for Gardiner East. The imposition of an at-grade highway will not take advantage of the Waterfront but rather create an even greater barrier between it and the rest of the city.
In advance of the June 10City Council meeting, dontcutmeoff.net will work to encourage Council to do the right thing for residents, businesses and commuters alike by voting for a hybrid solution.
OTA carriers who are affected by the potential removal of the Gardiner are encouraged to visit the site and contact their member of council to voice support for the alternative hybrid solution.
