John Tory as mayor and SmartTrack transit, here we come

By Wayne Karl
October 28, 2014

Toronto voted for John Tory and SmartTrack transit on Oct. 27, as Tory won more than 40 per cent of the vote with a campaign based on his plan for an $8-billion mostly surface subway that hinges on investments from the provincial and federal governments. Transit was a pivotal election, and Torontonians will be counting on Tory to deliver when he takes over as mayor on Dec. 1.Transit is not just a critical matter for commuters. For homeowners and those still looking to buy a home or condo, proximity to transit is becoming more important than ever. Access to transit is an increasingly critical determining factor for buyers. It matters for lifestyle and comfort while you live there, and it’s one of the most important influences on property values.Here’s a summary of where the three leading candidates for mayor – Tory, Doug Ford and Olivia Chow – stood on transit.John Tory

//www.oliviachow.ca/transit" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">transit plan" />
  • “Get people moving now,” by investing in buses now
  • Estimates 60 per cent of TTC rides involve a bus, and says the only way to expand transit now is by investing $15 million a year in buses – now
  • Also favours ordering new buses and building a new bus storage facility
  • This $184-million investment to be funded by a progressive land transfer tax
  • Wants to move ahead with approved and funded ready to go light-rail transit projects, on Finch and Sheppard East
  • Supports a subway relief line. Plan includes $200 million to conduct relief line engineering studies, also paid for by a progressive land transfer tax

Related reading:Rob Ford reveals new subway planProximity to infrastructure more important than ever

About Wayne Karl

Wayne Karl is an award-winning writer and editor with experience in real estate and business. Wayne explores the basics – such as economic fundamentals – you need to examine when buying property. wayne.karl@nexthome.ca

Have great ideas? Become a Contributor.

Contact Us

Our Publications

Read all your favourites online without a subscription

Read Now

Sign Up to Our Newsletter

Sign up to receive the smartest advice and latest inspiration from the editors of NextHome

Subscribe