OFA provided a written submission to ERO # 025-0450, ERO # 025-0504, and ORR # 25-MTO005 on proposed amendments related to transit and infrastructure under schedules 2 and 8 of Bill 17, Protect Ontario by Building Faster and Smarter Act, 2025.
OFA comments that fast, frequent, and efficient public transportation solutions would help to direct municipalities towards developing inwards and upwards. OFA cautions, however, that railways and other linear infrastructure that cut across the countryside may cause disruptions for farmers and rural communities. If transit companies, such as Metrolinx, propose new or expanding infrastructure in rural Ontario, they must avoid causing harm to farms and rural properties by first consulting with farmers. Transit companies must fulfill their duties under the Drainage Act and provide crossings such that farmers can continue to make use of their entire property.
Related submissions: