Phase 1 Study Process
Niagara to GTA Corridor Planning and Environmental
Assessment (EA) Study - Phase 1
The MTO has initiated Phase 1 of the Niagara to GTA Corridor Planning and Environmental Assessment Study. This study is being carried out within the context of the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe released by the Ontario Ministry of Public Infrastructure Renewal on June 16, 2006. The MTO is working to provide for the efficient movement of people and goods to meet the transportation objectives of the province’s Growth Plan.
The purpose of this study is to address existing and future anticipated transportation capacity deficiencies (problems and opportunities) within the Niagara to GTA corridor by providing additional capacity for a 30 year planning horizon and beyond.
As outlined in the EA Terms of Reference, a two-phased approach will be utilized to conduct this study. Phase 1 of this study includes the following key steps:
1. Develop a Study Plan
2. Identify transportation problems and opportunities and verify the need for transportation improvements
3. Identify and assess transportation planning alternatives (i.e. fundamentally different ways of addressing the problems and opportunities)
4. Select preferred transportation planning alternative(s) and recommend a Transportation Development Strategy
5. Make recommendations for future work in the Niagara to GTA corridor.
EA Process Phase 1
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The Environmental Assessment is currently underway, and will involve a two-phased approach:
Phase 1:
- Identify Transportation Problems and Opportunities
- Screen Modal Alternatives and Assemble Combinations
- Evaluate Transportation System Alternatives
- Select a Preferred Transportation Development Strategy
The following schematic outlines how the potential transportation system alternatives will be examined and developed.
Phase 2*:
- Refine the Study Area and Identify Significant Study Area Features
- Generate and Assess Alternative Transportation Methods
- Evaluate and Select the Preferred Transportation Method(s)
- Develop Concept Designs and Proposed Mitigation
- Submit EA Report
* If the Preferred Transportation Strategy identifies transportation projects under the jurisdiction of MTO. Transportation projects that are not within the jurisdiction of MTO must be pursued by the appropriate proponent. 
