Environmental Assessments

An environmental assessment (EA) is required to meet the regulatory requirements and support the decision-making process for implementing transit infrastructure along each of the corridors. The primary purpose is to promote good environmental planning by minimizing any adverse effects on the surrounding natural and social environments, and increasing beneficial effects that enhance the mobility, quality of life, safety and security of all potential users of the transit facilities.

As a municipal undertaking, Phase 2 of Viva is subject to the requirements of the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act and, in certain circumstances, the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act. EA reports must be approved by the Ministry of the Environment in each case.

Terms of Reference (ToR) are prepared in consultation with public and technical agencies to describe how the various stages of each EA study are to be conducted to meet the requirements of the Acts. A program-wide approach has enabled:

� Consistent use of planning and design criteria for application of rapid transit technologies and infrastructure development

� Effective consultation with stakeholders and the public

� Determination of the most appropriate route alignments and station locations

� Ongoing communication with the Ministry of the Environment

A Technical Advisory Committee has been established to monitor the progress of the EA studies. Additional members who represent interests along a specific corridor are invited to meetings regarding that corridor.

Consultation with general interest groups, property owners, community associations, Boards of Trade, Chambers of Commerce, business improvement associations, municipal Advisory Committees, and special interest groups is integral to the EA process. A program of public information meetings give groups the opportunity to ask questions and provide input.

Phase 2 of Viva encompasses four EAs, and the related information can be viewed online in the following sections:

� South Yonge Street Corridor Public Transit Improvements Environmental Assessment
� Highway 7 Corridor and Vaughan N-S Link Public Transit Improvements Environmental Assessment
� Markham North South Link Corridor Public Transit Improvements EA
� North Yonge Street Corridor Public Transit Improvements Environmental Assessment