New McMaster bus terminal plans left in limbo after LRT cancellation
- Bennett Swan
- 20 Dec 2019
The recent cancellation of the LRT project in Hamilton has left the city in shock, and plans for a new multi-million dollar transit hub at McMaster University have subsequently seen a sudden cancellation as well.
The transit hub was part of the initial $1 billion dollar transit budget dedicated to the City of Hamilton. McMaster University’s board of governors approved a $100 million budget for a series of projects that would transform the transit hub area of campus, located on Cootes Drive, into a formidable terminal for both HSR and GO buses, as well as what would have been the city’s eventual LRT trains.
The construction of this improved bus terminal was only estimated to use $8.9 million of its $100 million budget. The rest would be used for various other projects, including a $35 million commercial and academic building.
The plan also came with some logistical changes as far as the entrances to the bus terminals go, particularly making Cootes the primary entrance for buses and cars, and converting the Main street entrance into a more pedestrian-friendly area.
Needless to say, these mysterious last minute changes have come as a surprise for Hamilton residents, Metrolinx, McMaster and even Hamilton politicians.
Have sent a request to all Hamilton MPs to send a joint letter to the Minister of Infrastructure asking for help to fund the capital infrastructure costs of our Hamilton LRT. I am not willing to lose the good paying jobs, or the uplift to our downtown, without a fight. #YesLRT
— Scott Duvall (@sduvall07) December 17, 2019
This was a massively important project for McMaster. With a huge population of commuting students, faculty, and staff, public transport is essential for the accessibility of off-campus commuters. Additionally, with buildings spread between downtown Hamilton and the Main street campus, connectivity and ease of transportation are more than necessary.
The Ministry of Transportation has acknowledged that this McMaster bus terminal was a part of the original $1 billion LRT budget; however, despite the cancellations, they have said they intend to work to find alternative ways to deliver on some local transit initiatives.
Overall, the Hamilton LRT cancellation leaves other transit projects in a state of limbo. Until the money can be reallocated to get the project done, the HSR and GO bus system will remain the same.
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