Scarborough subway still being hotly debated

WATCH ABOVE: Mayor John Tory wants new transit money from federal budget for SmartTrack while city ponders ways to pay for Scarborough subway. Mark McAllister reports.

TORONTO — Funding for the Scarborough subway was up for debate again Wednesday at city hall. An executive committee recommendation to increase development charges was passed, which could add $165 million to fund the project.

The subway is projected to cost $3.5 billion. The city would kick in $910 million, with the province contributing $1.99 billion and the feds $660 million.

Toronto’s share of the cost will come from a council-approved 1.6 per cent increase in property taxes and development charges.

“Here we are once again raising development charges, taxes, all on the backs of city residents right across the city,” said Coun. Janet Davis. “When in fact what we really need are several other high-priority projects.”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "Here we are once again raising development charges, taxes, all on the backs of city residents right across the city," said Coun. Janet Davis. <strong>"</strong>When in fact what we really need are several other high-priority projects."

In a city where money is tight and there’s no shortage of transit projects, councilors and residents alike certainly have their opinions. A recent survey conducted by Forum Research found the Downtown Relief Line to be top priority for nearly a third of Torontonians polled.

The Scarborough Subway was second at 19 per cent, with the Eglinton Crosstown project third at 12 per cent.

Mayor John Tory said Wednesday he has no plan for pulling in the reigns on the project.

“With respect to the Scarborough subway, that was put in place before I got here,” said Tory. “I’m not going to interfere with it.”

Toronto transit Commission CEO Andy Byford said work is ongoing on the Scarborough subway’s design, but hints nothing is set in stone.

“We are aware that there is some debate still going on and we are watching that very closely,” said Byford. “We certainly haven’t reached the point of no return.”

With files from Mark McAllister