The Ontario government is introducing a package of legislative and policy measures that would, if passed, accelerate the building of key infrastructure projects to create jobs and lay the foundation for a strong economic recovery. The Ontario Rebuilding and Recovery Act, 2020 would support the construction of better-connected highways and public transit networks, transit-oriented communities, and affordable housing.
Included in the proposed legislation:
Extend authorities under the Transit-Oriented Communities Act, 2020 (TOC Act) to other provincial transit projects, such as GO Heavy Rail and light rail transit which would be specified in regulation.
"Since passing the Transit-Oriented Communities Act, we've heard from several municipalities that want to make transit-oriented communities a priority to help create additional housing and to better deliver transit projects," said Associate Minister Surma. "That is why we are expanding our transit-oriented communities approach beyond new subway stations, to other provincial transit projects, such as GO Heavy Rail and light rail transit."
Would this enable the province to expedite the process of building up around the Gormley and Bloomington GO stations both on the Oak Ridges Moraine? It may also give York Region the approval they are seeking to open the moraine lands around the 404 for employment.
The Ministry of Long-Term Care (MLTC) and the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH) are proposing to help address zoning and site plan approval concerns to expedite long-term care home development by leveraging support from the Provincial Land and Development Facilitator and by recognizing that the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing has existing authority to make Minister's Zoning Orders under the Planning Act.
The Office of the Provincial Land and Development Facilitator helps the province, municipalities, developers, businesses and community groups resolve issues related to growth management, land use and infrastructure planning, and environmental protection by providing impartial facilitation services.
Is this the reason why the current proposal for the 1577- 1621 Major Mackenzie Drive East lands ( Major Mac/404) suddenly includes a long-term care home and a request for a Minister's Zoning Order?