As we spring into spring, somewhat battered by the winter we’ve just survived, we now confront Toronto’s “second official season”: construction! Everywhere in and around Leaside, high-rise buildings are under construction and roads are being torn up. Among the latter is Beth Nealson Drive, recently closed for up to two years (!) for construction of an underpass required by the Ontario Line. Directly affected by this are two through-Leaside bus routes, the 88A and 88B, both of which used Beth Nealson Drive. As well, there is a new temporary TTC route 156.
Notices have been sent out and publicized, complete with maps and diagrams. But if you read the announcements, you will notice that some essential information is missing: the actual service frequency of both newly amended 88 routes. This is information telling you how long you will need to wait for the next bus, if you’ve just missed one. I am hoping that, by the time my next month’s Leaside Life column for the Leaside Residents Association is due, the TTC will have released enough information to ensure that these routes aren’t accompanied by a reduction in service.
Yes, it’s nearly election time – again
It is only a few short months before municipal Election Day! Surely not, you cry. But yes, there could even be a provincial and/or federal election not too far in the future, too.
I think we should regard this as an opportunity to identify the issues of particular importance to you, and for our community. How about more consistent bylaw enforcement? Better tree protection? More effective parking policies?
Many provincial decisions have major effects on municipal matters. Consider these recent examples: traffic congestion and traffic control; zoning changes; building more (or fewer) roads for cars; recycling; Ontario Place and the Ontario Science Centre; affordable housing; public transit funding; and so on.
Federal policies play a similarly vital role in how well our cities function. They underwrite many municipal social, environmental and business initiatives, among others. Everything is connected.
It’s not too early to start identifying your priorities and learning more about the priorities of candidates as they emerge. Ask questions. Be informed!
While you’re at it, become a member of your local residents’ association, the LRA. There’s a $30 annual fee to join or renew your membership (see the website address below) and show your support for Leaside.
The Leaside Residents Association invites you to attend our monthly LRA board meetings, which take place at 7:30 p.m. on the first Wednesday of every month. Our April meeting is on Wed., April 1st (no fooling!) via Zoom. For contact information with more details and updates, visit leasideresidents.ca and press the Contact Us button, or leasideresidents.ca/contact-us.
