WATCH: The latest study from City Hall suggests land sales could benefit the city but removing a potion of the Gardiner would increase commute times. Mark McAllister reports.
TORONTO – A staff report expected to be released Wednesday will further reveal details on the best options for the future of the east-end portion of the Gardiner Expressway.
The report, obtained by the Toronto Star and Toronto Sun a day in advance, indicates the city will benefit economically if the elevated highway east of Jarvis St. is torn down.
Although commute times would increase, the report suggests development and job-creation will be maximized if the roadway is turned into a boulevard.
The costlier option would have the city keep and maintain the Gardiner as is with the price tag at $919 million compared to $461 for tearing it down.
Mayor John Tory said Wednesday he has reviewed the report and believes the choice to determine the best option won’t be easy.
“I am not here to increase people’s commute times. I am here to make their lives better,” he said.
“The challenge of making this decision, which is to get to the bottom with all of the studies, our own papers and so on, on what the impact actually will be on traffic short-term/long-term, including the construction period and measuring that against what the benefits short-term and long-term for the city.”
The report is expected to be presented to the city’s public works committee for approval with a final decision on the matter to be debated in June’s council meeting.
VIDEOS: Looking back at the Gardiner Expressway debate
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