Health board wants GO trains to go electric
GO has already announced it will begin a study of electrifying its entire rail network this summer, but the latest plans don't foresee a full conversion for another 15 years.
The expanded line and air-rail link led by Metrolinx is expected to be ready in 2013, and would mean 250 to 450 diesel trains passing daily on the corridor, up from today's 50.
Diesel emissions have been linked to cancer, particularly of the lung, a fact that drew many people who live along the line to the board of health meeting.
"Why should kids be subjected to 10 years of this kind of pollution? No, it's not acceptable," resident Keith Brooks told the board.
Councillor Gord Perks called the expansion plans "the clearest case of the wrong way (to do) public transit I have ever seen.''
"It's quite disturbing this line would run right through – as a commuter line – right through the city, past all the schools, past all the people to drop (passengers) off in the 905. What the heck is going on here?'' said Councillor Paula Fletcher, another health board member.
She added it would be "unacceptable'' to have a line cutting through the city with that many diesel trains on it.
The health board's recommendations — which were endorsed this morning unanimously by the parks and environment committee – will be forwarded to the province and Ottawa.
Related News

How Energy Use Has Evolved Throughout U.S. History
WASHINGTON - The evolution of energy use in the United States is a dynamic narrative that reflects technological advancements, economic shifts, environmental awareness, and societal changes over time. From the nation's early reliance on wood and coal to the modern era dominated by oil, natural gas, and renewable sources, the story of energy consumption in the U.S. is a testament to innovation and adaptation.
Early Energy Sources: Wood and Coal
In the early days of U.S. history, energy needs were primarily met through renewable resources such as wood for heating and cooking. As industrialization took hold in the 19th century,…