Completing The Missing Link and Building the East Toronto Railpath - by Councillor Mike Layton, seconded by Councillor Joe Cressy

The bridge is actually just 350 metres long and was built to connect CPR's mainline through Midtown Toronto with Downtown and the waterfront, allowing passenger trains to easily access Union Station. The last regular passenger train used the bridge in 1990, with only the occasional freight using it since. Today, it sits completely disused, and owned by Metrolinx. At a recent public meeting, Metrolinx confirmed that they have no plans to use this property in the future. The old route has become an informal walking and cycling trail. The viaduct itself is fenced off on both ends; the lack of railing and gaps between the ties have made the bridge a hazard, though it remains in good condition and easier to pass through should efforts be taken to retrofit the bridge. The ability to build a trail through this land can become an important part of an active transportation network of trails that connects to the Evergreen Brickworks, Waterfront Trail, and the West Toronto Railpath.

3. City Council request the City Manager to instruct the appropriate staff to strike a working group once negotiations over the use of the property are concluded to help develop the East Toronto Railpath in consultation with the local Councillors for the areas in discussion.