Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced plans Monday to utilize legislation passed last year to designate Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport as a “special economic zone.” This move aims to bypass provincial and municipal regulations to facilitate an expansion of the airport’s runway, paving the way for jet service.
Expansion Plans and Provincial Action
The Premier stated his intention to expropriate the City of Toronto’s stake in the airport to overcome opposition from Mayor Olivia Chow regarding the expansion and the introduction of jets. The province intends to replace the city in the airport’s governing agreement, a tripartite arrangement involving the Toronto Port Authority and the federal government.
The city and the federal government recently agreed to extend the governing agreement to 2045, including the addition of safety buffer zones for the current turboprop aircraft operated by Porter Airlines and Air Canada. Still, accommodating jets would necessitate a significantly larger runway extension extending into Lake Ontario.
Concerns and Federal Consideration
Critics have voiced concerns that the expansion will negatively impact the use of parks and beaches along the Toronto waterfront. While Premier Ford has stated that any jets would be quiet, he has not specified anticipated increases in flight volume or passenger numbers.
Federal Transportation Minister Steven MacKinnon indicated the federal government is considering the proposal to allow jets at the airport. No federal minister attended Monday’s announcement.
Economic Rationale and Next Steps
Premier Ford framed the expansion as crucial for economic growth, arguing it would allow Toronto to compete with global cities possessing multiple major airports, such as London, Chicago, New York, and Paris. He also stated his government would consider environmental concerns but would not delay the Toronto Port Authority’s plans for runway expansion, which would involve using fill.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of designating Billy Bishop Airport a “special economic zone”?
According to Premier Ford, designating the airport a “special economic zone” using Bill 5 will allow the government to exempt the runway expansion project from provincial environmental and other rules, as well as city hall approvals.
What is the City of Toronto’s current role in the airport’s governance?
The City of Toronto is currently a party to a tripartite agreement with the Toronto Port Authority and the federal government, which determines the future of the airport. The province intends to replace the city in this agreement.
What are the potential environmental impacts of the runway expansion?
Opponents of the expansion warn it will disrupt the use of parks and beaches along the waterfront. The runway expansion would require filling land into Lake Ontario, and while the Premier stated environmental concerns would be considered, details have not been provided.
Given the stated intention to move forward with the expansion despite potential opposition, what role will public consultation and environmental assessments ultimately play in shaping the future of Billy Bishop Airport?
