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The City of Toronto today announced plans to spend more than
$240 million to improve the quality of the City’s roads and
bridges as well as other transportation programs that support
transit initiatives, cycling infrastructure and pedestrian
environments.
"The City of Toronto is committed to maintaining and upgrading
the quality of our transportation infrastructure," said Mayor
David Miller. "Toronto’s transportation network is a critical
component of our community and we are investing in our
infrastructure assets to ensure the safety of all road users.
Performing this work is another example of the City’s efforts to
create jobs in difficult times - doing what is necessary to
improve the economic well-being of our community."
There will be 95 kilometres of newly initiated road construction
projects this year. New major road work planned for the city in
2009 will include Lawrence Avenue in the east, Moore Avenue in
the central area, Allen Road in the north and Martin Grove Road
in the west. In addition, about $70 million will also be spent
on other work including road work in conjunction with water main
and sewer replacement and other public realm initiatives.
While keeping the roads in a state of good repair is important,
the Mayor said the City continues to invest in walking, cycling
and transit initiatives that will reduce congestion and improve
air quality.
"It is important to remember that transportation is more than
just roads. We are also improving pedestrian environments,
committed to completing the Toronto Bike Plan and enhancing
public transit opportunities. In this way, we are taking
important steps in the efforts to reduce the harmful emissions
that lead to climate change," said Mayor Miller.
Councillor Glenn De Baeremaeker, Chair of the City’s Works and
Infrastructure Committee, noted that, due to recent harsh winter
conditions, the City has put additional emphasis on fixing
potholes.
"We’ve increased the number of crews to perform this work," said
Councillor De Baeremaeker. "The City has fixed an average of
190,000 potholes per year in the past four years and we’re
committed to doing even more to keep the roads in good shape."
Toronto is Canada's largest city and sixth largest government,
and home to a diverse population of about 2.6 million people. It
is the economic engine of Canada and one of the greenest and
most creative cities in North America. Toronto has won numerous
awards for quality, innovation and efficiency in delivering
public services. 2009 marks the 175th anniversary of Toronto's
incorporation as a city. Toronto's government is dedicated to
prosperity, opportunity and liveability for all its residents.
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