NDP calls for answers as wait for Eglinton-Crosstown LRT continues

QUEEN’S PARK — Ontario NDP Shadow Minister for Public Transit Doly Begum (Scarborough Southwest) sounded off on Doug Ford and Metrolinx for once again failing to provide transparency on the Eglinton-Crosstown LRT.

“It’s clear that the Minister or the Premier don’t have a timeline for the Eglinton-Crosstown LRT, or what’s going on with Metrolinx. This is why we need a full inquiry into both the project, and Metrolinx,” said Begum. “Enough moving the goalposts. Ontarians deserve the truth.”

“Doug Ford and Metrolinx will give anything but a straight answer. The Premier said earlier this year that the Eglinton-Crosstown LRT would be running by September. Now, the best he can offer is a vague ‘early 2026’ estimate? This is meaningless.”

MPP Begum questioned Conservative Transit Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria during this year’s Ministry estimates proceedings, where he refused to shed light on the project, or directly commit to a 2026 opening.

“Only a major issue — or issues — could explain a delay of this magnitude. We have no idea what that is, nor what the final cost will be to Ontario taxpayers. Meanwhile, Metrolinx’s overpaid executives continue to mismanage billions of taxpayer dollars with total impunity, costing businesses and families along Eglinton their livelihood."

“Will the Premier listen to the people, and launch a public inquiry of Metrolinx?”