We need to look at some form of light-rail system, among other things, to spur our local economy and get Hamilton into the next millennium.
By Lloyd Ferguson, Ancaster Councillor
Published in the Ancaster News on September 26, 2008.
I've just returned from a business trip to three cities in Canada and the U.S. where light-rail transit has been the engine for economic growth. Along with Mayor Fred Eisenberger, colleague Russ Powers and transit staff, I am now convinced that we need to look at some form of light-rail system, among other things, to spur our local economy and get Hamilton into the next millennium.
As one who had doubts, recognizing that a light-rail line would reduce traffic lanes by at least one, the cost savings and economic-growth potential are worth exploring for our city. In Charlotte (North Carolina), Portland (Oregon) and Calgary (Alberta) - all comparable-size cities to ours - the average per-user cost to the municipality was significantly less than our bus operating costs.
We have the opportunity through Metrolinx, a provincial body, to secure funding for the capital cost of such a rail system. This is truly an exciting project for us to pursue.