Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow and Deputy Mayor Ausma Malik are celebrating a recent victory for the waterfront after the federal government blocked Ontario’s plans to expand Billy Bishop Airport. In a move to express gratitude to residents who opposed the airport expansion, Chow will propose making Toronto Island ferry tickets free for kids, youth under 19, and seniors over 65 throughout August. This initiative aims to showcase the beauty of the Toronto Islands and allow more people to experience what the waterfront has to offer.
Chow emphasized that the free ferry rides will be available to all eligible age groups, not just Torontonians, reflecting a united effort to protect the waterfront. The program, estimated to cost $940,000, will be funded by the Spadina-Fort York ward’s Section 37 funds, collected from developers for community benefits. Any surplus funds after August will be allocated to enhance the ferry docks, boosting the overall waterfront experience.
While the City expresses gratitude to its residents, the Province remains firm on its intention to proceed with the airport expansion despite opposition. Ontario’s Minister of Transportation highlighted the economic benefits and job opportunities associated with the project. However, Chow is pushing for the return of waterfront lands expropriated under Bill 110, stressing the importance of reclaiming these public spaces for the benefit of Toronto’s residents.