Ontario seeks public input on regional transportation plan

Ontario's government last week released a draft plan to build a better transportation system that will connect people and businesses in southwestern Ontario.

Dubbed "Connecting the Southwest," the plan features more than 40 advancements and strategies, including options for improvements to existing rail corridors and private-sector partnerships to advance passenger- and freight-rail service.

"Our plan for southwestern Ontario includes real, practical transportation improvements that will connect our cities, towns, villages and hamlets by improving our roads and highways, improving accessibility, and ensuring bus, rail and local transit services are as seamless as possible," said Caroline Mulroney, Ontario's transportation minister, in a press release.

The draft plan marks the beginning of comprehensive regional transportation planning for the province, government officials said. The process will be developed through communication with municipal leaders, Indigenous communities, community leaders, businesses and transportation experts.

In addition, the province is asking the public to comment on the plan. Ontarians can participate by completing the online survey until March 17.