Hamilton’s LRT moves forward, but concerns arise over private involvement

The City of Hamilton is one step closer to having a Light Rail Train (LRT), but there’s still a long way to go. Some community members are worried the project may turn into a public -private partnership.

City staff gave a presentation outlining options for responsibilities and operations of the LRT.

The city has a memorandum of understanding, with Metrolinx and the Ontario Crown agency tasked with implementing the project.

But there is concern from some community members and transit unions that a private company could end up being responsible, putting profits above quality public service.

“We are here to assure the LRT subcommittee and city council that Hamilton Street Railway is the only logical choice to operate and maintain our LRT system,” said one community member. 

Hamiltonians have been hearing about getting the LRT since 2007. The 14 kilometre light rail will connect McMaster University in the west end of Hamilton, to Eastgate.

It was cancelled in 2019, but resurrected in May 2021 thanks to a funding partnership between the province and the federal government.

Despite hearing community concerns, mayor Andrea Horwath remains optimistic. 

“I thought it was a good first step to start having a conversation about the options are ahead of us,” said Horwath. 

Brian Connelly is an executive member with amalgamated transit union local 113.

“Private consortiums, through Metrolinx put profit before safety, before service and before accountability,” he said. 

Although the City of Hamilton is a partner in this project, whatever they decide, they may be overruled  by the province.

“There are things over which we have some control, and things over which we have no control,” said Horwath. 

Another meeting will be held in September.