May 20, 2004, York Regional Council to seek approvals for key infrastructure projects

NEWMARKET – York Regional Council today endorsed a plan to begin a communication process with senior levels of government and local MPs and MPPs to secure the necessary permits to keep key infrastructure projects on track to meet planned Regional growth forecasts.

“It is essential that the Region obtain these permits to prevent economic hardships and delays to our planned developments,” said Bill Fisch, Regional Chair and CEO. “York Region’s planned growth is vital to the economic well-being of Ontario and the Greater Toronto Area. Construction in the Region contributes $6.75 billion a year in Gross Domestic Product and creates 40,000 direct and indirect full-time one year jobs.”

A Chair and Mayors Task Force has been struck that will oversee the communication with senior levels of government and seek the necessary permits to move forward with the key projects.

Providing adequate wastewater servicing capacity beyond 2007 relies on the completion of several key sewer projects. Approval delays for one of the projects, the 16^th Avenue Trunk Sewer; Phase Two, has identified the need for effective communication with regulatory agencies.

The project has faced significant delays in obtaining the Permit To Take Water (PTTW), which is necessary, and a part of the construction of major sewers. Further delays on all critical infrastructure projects could be felt in all municipalities across the Region.

There is also a concern that extended delays in the priority projects could increase environmental risks, and the possibility of sewage surcharging into the basements of homes in high-risk areas.

In addition, new home buyers could be faced with extended closing dates due to servicing delays.

“These projects are instrumental as the Region moves forward to implement growth, which has been carefully planned since 1994 though our Official Plan and Infrastructure process,” added Chair Fisch.

“The Region has been diligent with all aspects of the 16^th Avenue project. We’ve committed to approximately $10 million in environmental and well mitigation measures to assist with temporary construction impacts,” said Chair Fisch. “We are doing everything necessary to ensure this project, and the other critical projects move forward in an environmentally responsible manner.”

The members of the Task Force will begin to seek meetings with local MPs and MPPs and other stakeholders to discuss next steps in obtaining all necessary permits.

Contact: Nancy Vosylius/Corporate Communications, York Region

- (905) 830-4444 or 1-877-464-9675, ext. 1226

- Email: Nancy.Vosylius@region.york.on.ca