On November 11, 2010, GO Transit and Metrolinx prepared a very detailed feasibility study that outlines planned intentions for commuter GO Train service between Bolton and Toronto. The study recommends that a GO train station stop at Emery Village (Finch & Weston) in three of the four options outlined in it.
The only option that by-passes Emery Village (and Woodbridge) has stops include the dubious option of having the local stop built directly in between Highway 407 and Islington Avenue.
In this option and scenario, neither Emery Village nor Woodbridge would get stops and the location of the stop would actually serve limited numbers other than a few long-standing farmers along Islington and vehicle commuters who use the 407.
This option could train noise through the community instead of giving it the opportunity to rebuild and open the former Emery train station stop to new-found glory.
It is imperative for the livelihood of the community that one of the three options that recommend a stop at Emery be supported by all levels of government. The three Emery Village options outline three different possible locations for a singular but unique dedicated stop at Woodbridge. In our case, it is therefore best for both Woodbridge and Emery to be united in getting our respective stops at the locations best desired.
According to the report, the Emery Village GO Train Station stop is to be developed in the hydro corridor immediately north of Emery Collegiate and south of Finch Avenue, close to Arrow Road.
Mark Segsworth, a former Emery Collegiate graduate and resident recently has informed the Emery Village Voice that he has written our local M.P.P.’s office and outlined various reasons that a dedicated Emery Village stop would serve to establish a “transportation hub” and that economic spinoffs would greatly serve the community at-large. Mark is currently employed as Public Works Manager for the Township of South Frontenac as city engineer and is interested in contributing personal energy to help make the station become a reality.
Our three political leaders have recently committed to sitting down together to help initiate the plans for a station to be built for our community. What a momentous occasion it will be, the day of the re-opening of the Emery Village Train Station stop. Think about a station that was initially opened for commuter rail service just over 140 years ago. What a day indeed that will be.
The Toronto Bolton Feasibility Commuter Rail Service Study can be viewed online at: http//www.metrolinx.com/en/regionalplanning/projectevaluation/studies/Bolton_Commuter_Rail_Feasibility_Study_2010_EN.pdf