Scarborough residents express concerns about feeling neglected in terms of transit improvements amid the development of major transportation infrastructure projects in Toronto. Rhoda Potter, a long-time Scarborough resident and president of the Agincourt Village Community Association, highlights the need for a subway line in the area, emphasizing that many residents rely on public transportation due to limited car accessibility, resulting in lengthy commute times.
Despite the upcoming busway opening on the old Scarborough RT route in September, Potter and other community members believe that Scarborough still lacks efficient public transit options. The proposed Eglinton East light-rail transit project, aimed at serving eastern Scarborough, has not provided a clear timeline, leaving residents questioning the progress of transit developments in their area.
Krissan Veerasingam, a Scarborough native and board co-chair for TTCriders, echoes concerns about the disparity in transit investments between Scarborough and other regions in Toronto. He emphasizes the need for improved transit infrastructure within Scarborough to facilitate quicker and more convenient travel for local residents.
The delayed opening of the Finch West LRT and the ongoing delays in the Eglinton Crosstown project further highlight the challenges Scarborough faces in receiving adequate transit upgrades. Potter emphasizes the importance of transit options that cater to local travel needs within Scarborough and east-end Toronto, rather than solely focusing on routes to the city center.
Veerasingam criticizes the temporary bus lanes as a short-term fix and calls for sustained financial support from provincial and federal authorities to realize essential transit projects like the Eglinton East LRT. The lack of efficient public transportation not only limits mobility but also hinders socio-economic opportunities for residents, leading to what experts describe as a “transportation poverty” gap.
Professor Steven Farber emphasizes the necessity of addressing transportation challenges in Scarborough to prevent further societal impacts. The proposed Eglinton East LRT is seen as a vital link connecting diverse communities within Scarborough and potentially enhancing economic growth and job prospects in the area.
While city council has approved initial design plans for the Eglinton East LRT, further stages of development and funding commitments from provincial and federal partners are awaited. The sentiments expressed by Scarborough residents reflect a growing demand for improved transit infrastructure that caters to local needs and promotes community growth and connectivity.
