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Earlier this week, the Ontario government introduced the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area Transit Implementation Act of 2009, which would merge GO Transit and Metrolinx and help the agencies more quickly expedite a Regional Transportation Plan.

The proposed merger "fulfills the original intent of Metrolinx," according to a prepared statement. Created by the Ontario government in 2006, the agency is charged with developing and implementing an integrated multi-modal transportation plan for Toronto, Hamilton and four surrounding municipalities.

The government has appointed Robert Prichard as transition advisor for the merger. Metrolinx Chairman Rob MacIsaac and GO Transit Chairman Peter Smith will serve on a transition advisory board. The Ontario government plans to appoint a new board to oversee the combined agencies, with experts in planning, finance and development.