Metrolinx released an analysis on Thursday on a future Park Lawn GO Station in south Etobicoke, indicating nearly 5,000 local residents would take it daily.
The updated Initial Business Case (IBC) is a “promising next step” in the development of the future GO station, subject to necessary approvals and agreements, Metrolinx spokesperson Scott Money said.
“There is a strong case for moving forward with transit projects like a new Park Lawn GO station, as we look to the future state of transit in the region,” Money said in an email. “We are in need of increased capacity in response to demand, relief to current congestion, and expansion to provide additional travel options for people in the GTA.”
The updated business case analysis assumed a future Park Lawn GO station would be under construction from 2021 to 2024, when it would open. The 27-page report also assumed a 60-year life cycle for the future GO station.
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First Capital Realty, owners of the former Mr. Christie site at 2150 Lake Shore Blvd. W., have expressed interest in delivering the station as part of its mixed-use development proposal to build 15 towers ranging from 22 to 71 storeys.
The report indicated it expects to see a “high proportion of ridership” coming from the development.
The report also makes clear it considers integration of a future Park Lawn GO station within First Capital’s development.
“Outside of the TOC (Transit Oriented Communities) Program, Metrolinx has no existing plans to fund or construct the station,” the report stated.
Ulrich said the Humber Bay Shores Residents Association’s strongest focus is on the Christie lands.
“Those lands have the potential to make or break this community,” Ulrich said. “So far, at a high level, what we’ve seen proposed will be a benefit to the community as long as it materializes. This area has a lot of young families. We need a school. We need daycares.”