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Dundas Street key to rapid transit bus system Commuting from Oakville to Toronto may soon become faster and easier thanks to a rapid transit bus system Metrolinx is planning to establish along Dundas Street. The regional transportation agency released a benefits case for four possible options for a 37kilometre route, which would stretch from Hwy. 407 in Burlington to Kipling station in Toronto. A Metrolinx report concerning the project was presented to Halton Regional Chair Gary Carr last week and suggests construction of one of the four options would range in price from $225 million to $505 million. The project could begin as early as 2012. The cheapest option is for articulated buses traveling in mixed traffic with signal priority measures while the most costly option would see buses traveling in their own lanes, separate from cars. The four options could make it possible for commuters to travel the full route in anywhere from 74 to 89 minutes. The report says that, over 30 years, the first option means savings of up to $197 million while the $350 million in savings comes with buses running in dedicated lanes. The savings are calculated based on reduced travel times, road congestion and vehicle wear and tear. John Howe, Metrolinx vice-president of investment strategy, said the bus rapid transit system for the full Dundas route would likely take three to five years to complete. Howe said detailed planning and engineering studies will likely begin shortly to determine the best option for Dundas Street and the best way to phase the project. He said the full $505-million system would be similar to a bus rapid transit system being constructed in York Region. "The buses would run on their own rights-ofway along the middle of Dundas Street and there would also be very nice passenger stops and waiting areas. It would be a good, attractive transit experience for the transit rider," Howe said. The systems would have the ability to move 1,800 to 3,100 passengers per hour per direction to start with. While the question of just who would pay for the project remains to be worked out, Howe said Halton Region received $57 million from Metrolinx two years ago. And, given those funds and the fact Halton is already widening sections of Dundas Street in Oakville from four to six lanes, it might make sense for the west portion of the project to proceed. Oakville also has plans for residential construction north of Dundas Street, which will be home to some 55,000 residents within the next decade. -- With files from the Hamilton Spectator. 7 · Friday, July 16, 2010 OAKVILLE BEAVER · www.oakvillebeaver.com Vacations Made You Feel Guilty About Leaving Dad Alone This year you left, but he's not alone C Renovate · Decorate · Celebrate hartwell welcomes long and short term stays for a variety of reasons. Our residents and staff look forward to meeting new people and making them feel right at home. GET FREERENT! Time is Precious, Mistakes are Costly and Decorating is complicated. 2MONTHS Plan Today For A MoveTomorrow! nToday MoveTomorro Start summer off right and indulge in the finer things in life. Move in within 60 days and receive 2 months free rent.* Call today for this limited time offer! *Move in must be 60 days from date of deposit. Offer expires September 1st, 2010. Inquire about your Personal Design Consultation At Fitz by Design we are committed to creating breathtaking, functional spaces that are unique as the individuals living in them. 180 Oak Park Blvd., Oakville