Toronto Island
Airport
The Toronto Island Airport has become a major
issue in the municipal election in the last few weeks. After receiving
feedback from Ward 4 residents, this is my position. The “fixed
link” or proposed bridge to the Island is subject to a contract
between the city, the Toronto Port Authority and the federal government.
The previous City Council made a decision and entered into this
agreement. Breaching the agreement could cost Toronto taxpayers
millions. Accordingly, I am reluctant to place Toronto in a position
whereby it would breach the current agreement.
A proposal and business plan has been made to increase the air traffic
at Toronto Island Airport. As a former resident of Harbour Square
condominiums on Queen’s Quay, I understand the multi-use purpose
of our waterfront and Island. I will not support the expansion of
the Island airport for jet traffic or increase the number of flights
beyond the ceiling of allowable flights for the airport. I will
not support any proposed expansion of runways on the Island airport.
Should the business proposal currently put forward for use of the
Island airport not lead to a profitable use of the airport such
that the City of Toronto is required to expend taxpayer dollars
to maintain the facility, I will consider closing the airport and
having the lands converted to a use that provides a greater economic
benefit and to a use that can be enjoyed by all Torontonians.
Etobians are concerned that closure of the Island airport will lead
to increased air traffic at Pearson airport. It is my understanding,
however, that if the current air traffic at Toronto Island airport
were diverted to Pearson, this would not lead to a significant increase
in air traffic at Pearson. Many of the planes that use the Island
airport would be diverted to Buttonville Airport or the Hamilton
Airport.
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