Toronto’s mayor has filed an urgent motion on Monday, seeking the return of waterfront land from the province after a federal rejection of a jet expansion proposal at Billy Bishop Airport. Mayor Olivia Chow expressed her desire to have Little Norway Park and the Toronto Islands under municipal control. She reiterated the city council’s opposition to the federal decision and demanded the return of the waterfront area.
The motion put forward by Chow, with support from Deputy Mayor Ausma Malik, follows the announcement by federal Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon that the government will prioritize approved safety upgrades at Billy Bishop Airport instead of expanding it for jet landings. The decision was influenced by overwhelming public feedback, with 87% of respondents against the proposed changes. While MacKinnon hinted at a possible reconsideration in the future, the current focus remains on safety enhancements.
Premier Doug Ford’s plan to extend the airport’s runway faced criticism over potential environmental and community impacts, including concerns about noise, traffic, pollution, affordable housing, and the integrity of the Toronto waterfront. Despite the passing of Bill 110 granting the province control over the Toronto Islands, Ford’s government assured it would only acquire what was necessary.
The Port Authority CEO, RJ Steenstra, emphasized the economic benefits of the airport expansion, estimating a multi-billion-dollar contribution annually. Advocacy groups like NoJetsTO and Environmental Defence actively campaigned against the expansion, distributing thousands of lawn signs and engaging residents in the consultation process.
Ontario Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria affirmed the province’s commitment to advancing the airport expansion while addressing noise and environmental issues, expanding public spaces like Little Norway Park, and supporting new housing opportunities. Mayor Chow criticized the lack of transparency in sharing airport plans and raised concerns about the project’s impact on housing, congestion, and the environment.
Aviation expert John Gradek highlighted the adequacy of Pearson International Airport for Toronto’s needs, questioning the necessity of expanding Billy Bishop. He suggested that while future demands might increase, the proposed runway extension and landfill expansion were not the optimal solutions.
Opposition parties hailed the federal government’s decision and called on Ford to reconsider his stance on the airport expansion. NDP Leader Marit Stiles and Liberal legislator Adil Shamji criticized Bill 110 as a controversial move by the government, urging a reevaluation of the legislation.