Federal Government Rejects Billy Bishop Airport Expansion

The federal government announced that it won’t back Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s proposal to expand Billy Bishop Airport for jet traffic.

Transport Minister Steven Mac Kinnon shared on social media platform X that the focus will solely be on “approved safety enhancements” for the airport, allowing Toronto residents to have a voice in future developments.

Mac Kinnon emphasized that the airport plays an essential role in Canada’s transportation system.

“As we ensure its future as a vital transportation, economic, and tourism hub for Toronto, it is important that we do it with and for Canadians,” he said. “Toronto voices will shape any future plans for Billy Bishop Airport.”

According to Mac Kinnon, the government received over 87,000 responses during its consultation about the airport, which concluded on Friday.

The minister mentioned that Ottawa will continue collaborating with partners to “study the region’s connectivity needs and protecting the interests of local residents.”

“However, we will not pursue any plans that infringe on treasured public spaces like Little Norway Park or Hanlan’s Point Beach, result in elevated noise, have significant environmental impacts, or hinder Toronto’s ability to build much-needed housing.”

WATCH | Ford had said Ottawa was on board with Billy Bishop expansion:

Ford said the federal government is on board with Billy Bishop expansion. But Carney says he’s undecided

Ford aims to increase annual passenger traffic at the island airport from around two million to 10 million. He claimed this idea had federal government support. However, as CBC’s Lorenda Reddekopp explains, Carney has yet to form an opinion pending broad consultations planned for this summer.

Mac Kinnon noted that feedback during consultations covered various topics such as transportation, economics, environmental protection, noise concerns, housing issues and overall quality of life. He added that safety enhancements at the airport are expected to be finished by mid-2027.

Mayor calls on province to return land to city

In a statement released Friday night, Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Mark Carney and Mac Kinnon for listening to local residents.

“Thank you to everyone who spoke out, shared your voice and stood up for our community. Your relentless advocacy has made a difference,” Chow stated.

“Now that this expansion is not moving forward, we are calling on the Province to return the City’s land. Together we can continue working to protect our waterfront for future generations.”

WATCH | CBC explains Toronto’s opposition to the airport expansion plans:

Toronto in the dark around plans for Billy Bishop, Chow says

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow criticized the Toronto Port Authority after being asked to sign a nondisclosure agreement when discussing future plans for Billy Bishop Airport. CBC’s Naama Weingarten has more details – along with reactions.

Ford previously mentioned his hopes of increasing annual passenger traffic at the island airport dramatically.

This past May saw legislation passed allowing Ontario’s government take over from Toronto in a tripartite agreement managing the airport while also acquiring city-owned lands nearby along with parts of the Toronto Islands. Previously this agreement involved collaboration between city officials and both federal government representatives and those from Toronto Port Authority-a federal entity.

The bill gained royal assent in June. The Toronto Port Authority supported expanding operations at the airport.

Minister says province intends ‘to advance’ expansion plan

Ontario Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria indicated via post on X late Friday night that provincial authorities still have intentions regarding development projects at this site.

“We look forward continuing work towards advancing extension efforts concerning Billy Bishop Airport ,” Sarkaria commented.

“The advantages are evident : The project could contribute up $8.5 billion annually Canada ‘s economy , create thousands jobs , improve connectivity millions travelers businesses across Ontario North America beyond ,” he explained.

Sarkaria stated they’d ensure initiatives would “protect public spaces including islands address potential noise environmental concerns enhance Little Norway Park support new housing opportunities area provide lasting benefits local communities.”

Tim Gray Executive Director Environmental Defence praised Ottawa ’ s verdict labeling it monumental victory not only Torontonians waterfront their residents alike.

“Federal government’s decision grounding proposal extending operations Island accommodating jets triumph community power democratic participation,” Gray remarked.

“You can’t buy our waterfront. We just proved it.”

This verdict came amidst widespread public disapproval according him.

“This success demonstrates Torontonians won’t stand idly while our waterfront parks quality life face threats.”

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