Transit experts and critics of the government’s handling of the Eglinton Crosstown LRT project in Ontario are emphasizing the importance of transparent communication to ensure public support for the remaining phases of the multi-billion dollar transit expansion. The long-awaited opening of the Crosstown is scheduled to kick off in a phased manner this Sunday, with the announcement made to the public just days before the official launch.
Despite the government touting the commencement of service on the 19-kilometre line as a cause for celebration, criticism has been directed at the lack of transparency regarding longstanding issues with the project. Premier Doug Ford has voiced his frustration over the delays multiple times, including during a recent speech where he described the project as a “nightmare.”
The Eglinton LRT project, which commenced in 2011 with an initial estimated cost of $9.1 billion, was originally slated for completion in 2020. However, confidential documents obtained in 2022 revealed that project costs had surged to at least $12.8 billion.
Part of a costly provincial transit plan, the Crosstown project has been a highly intricate undertaking in a densely populated area of Toronto. Transit planner David Cooper highlighted the significant disruption caused to residents and businesses over the years, attributing much of the public frustration to a lack of information regarding construction issues.
Former Metrolinx spokesperson Anne Marie Aikins, who previously handled communications for the Crosstown project, noted the inadequacy of information provided to address public queries and concerns. Aikins stressed the importance of prompt and transparent communication to regain public trust, especially in light of the challenges posed by the project’s delivery model.
Furthermore, experts like Matti Siemiatycki and Murtaza Haider raised concerns about the impact of confidentiality clauses within public-private partnership agreements on information sharing and transparency. Opposition critics are urging the government to conduct a full public inquiry into the project’s problems and improve communication strategies for future transit initiatives.
In conclusion, effective communication and transparency are essential to maintaining public confidence and support for transit expansion projects, as highlighted by various stakeholders involved in the Eglinton Crosstown LRT endeavor.