Experts urge caution on Metrolinx's Davenport rail overpass

TORONTO, Dec. 9, 2015 /CNW/ - Davenport residents are calling on city council to stand up to "Metrolinx bullying" and vote down a controversial rail overpass plan that the agency wants to push through.

Renowned urban planners Paul Bedford and Ken Greenberg have urged caution.

"Building a 1.5 km elevated rail bridge through a densely populated established community is unprecedented. It has major implications that require a full study of alternatives.  Metrolinx should take the time to work closely with the city and community before embarking on such a major undertaking as it did with both the Liberty village and Weston neighbourhoods," Bedford told the Options for Davenport group.

Greenberg added: "I would encourage Metrolinx to work more closely with the city, and specifically, to consider the specific city-building concerns with the project as currently proposed."

Council debates the item this week. Staff has asked for a tunnel.

"When you consider long-term costs, the overpass is more expensive," said Options spokesperson Sam Barbieri. "We want council to stand up to Metrolinx bullying and support residents."

SOURCE Options For Davenport

Spokesperson Sam Barbieri [email protected]; optionsfordavenport.ca;