Where did Hwy. 413 come from?

Thestar.com
March 22, 2021

Suggested then killed: First suggested about 15 years ago, Highway 413 was killed in 2018 by the Wynne government. A year later, when Doug Ford became premiere, the idea was reintroduced.

A solution for growth: The area northwest of Toronto (including parts of York, Peel and Halton regions) is experiencing major increases in population and employment. The 2017 Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe forecasted the area to grow to 13.5 million people and 6.3 million jobs by 2041. By 2031, the average commuter times are expected to increase by 27 minutes a day. Building more transportation infrastructure is expected to help alleviate traffic congestion. Over the past 20 years, plans and studies envisaged a new highway corridor as a solution.

Vaughan withdraws endorsement: On March 10, Vaughan councillors withdrew their endorsement for Highway 413. The councillors’ endorsement dated back to 2015.

Vaughan approves environmental assessment: Vaughan councillors approved Coun. Marilyn Iafrate's motion March 10, calling for a federal environmental assessment of the proposed highway.

York Region Council reinforces support: York Region council voted March 18 against a motion to rescind its support of the GTA West highway.

Opposition outside York Region: At the end of February, Mississauga announced it had unanimously passed a motion opposing Highway 413. Mayor Bonnie Crombie wrote in a statement that the highway would “encourage residential sprawl and increase our dependence on cars.” Orangeville and Halton Hills have also announced similar position. Other councils have called for more assessments or consultation.

Coming budget: With the Ontario budget coming out in late March, a variety of protesters and advocates are hoping to influence how the government uses taxpayers’ dollars

Take action:

The province is planning a public information session on Highway 413 in fall 2021 and comments can be submitted any time at the project's official website. Visit www.gta-west.com, call 1-877-522-6916 or email project_team@gta-west.com.

Resources:

www.gta-west.com/faq

www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/publications/gta-west-report/executive-summary.shtml

environmentaldefence.ca/stop-the-413