Published plans and annual reports 2021-2022: Ministry of Transportation

Ministry overview

Ministry of Transportation vision

The Ministry of Transportation (MTO) enables access to activities by providing and supporting safe, equitable, efficient, sustainable and convenient mobility options for people and goods.

Ministry contribution to priority outcomes

• Increasing mobility and access options by connecting more people to places. Working with our partners to build a world-class, integrated transit system and deliver more transit services faster that serve communities across the province.
• Promoting a multi-modal, regional transportation network that supports the efficient movement of people and goods. Investing in an integrated transportation system that supports the province’s economic competitiveness across all modes of transportation.
• Keeping Ontario’s transportation network safe. Ensuring the province’s transportation system is among the safest in the world.
• Investing in highways, roads, bridges and other priority infrastructure. Making smart investments and expanding the province’s highway network to provide reliable access to an efficient transportation system.
• Driving organizational effectiveness and enabling innovation. Enabling a creative, innovative, diverse and agile workforce that can deliver on our ministry vision and goals.

To deliver on these outcomes, the ministry has five, cross-cutting strategies to deliver on key government priorities. Notable initiatives are summarized below, with further details found throughout the ministry’s Estimate Briefing Book.

Strategy 1 – Innovate provincial transportation policies, regulation, plans and systems to enable mobility and access

• Building Transit Faster Act, 2020 (BTFA) - Extending the measures in the BTFA to other provincial transit projects, creating jobs and economic benefits for communities.
• Reducing Red Tape & Increasing Efficiencies – Implement several regulatory amendments and pilot initiatives, such as the e-scooter pilot and permitting the use of cargo e-bikes through municipal by-laws.
• Promoting Safer Roads Through Effective Legislation and Regulation - introduce innovative regulation, such as the new School Bus Arm Camera Regulatory Framework, and Zero Blood Alcohol Requirement for Driving Instructors.

Strategy 2 – Support and deliver safe, equitable, efficient and convenient mobility options which enable economic recovery and build future resiliency

• Northeastern Passenger Rail - Accelerating work to examine safety and infrastructure needs for potential future passenger rail service in the North.
• Resilient Ferry Fleet - In Fall 2021 MTO will receive two hybrid-electric capable ferries that will run passenger and vehicle ferry service between the mainland with Amherst Island and Wolfe Island.
• Safer Towing Industry & Tow Zone Pilot - Implement new rules for towing in the province, to address violence and fraud in the industry.
• Technology to support Carrier Safety - Expand the deployment of Smart Roadside Technology in commercial vehicle compliance and enforcement.

Strategy 3 – Deliver existing revenue generation plans and develop new, innovative value creation opportunities

• Revenue Generation - Established a Value Creation Framework, which is expected to generate over $390M over the next four years.
• Public Education and Research Surcharge (PEARS) – Will ensure the ministry can continually invest critical research to drive evidence-based policies.
• MTO Data and Information Strategy (MDIS) - MDIS is transforming MTO into a modern data-driven and future-ready organization.

Strategy 4 – Perform meaningful reforms to modernize the organization, to ensure the ministry is future ready and user-focused

• Anti-Racism Action Plan – Supports anti-racism awareness and capacity building within our ministry and will help the ministry deliver a transportation system that is accessible and barrier free to all.
• Improve Developer Processes through the Highway Corridor Management System (HCMS) – Land Development Module; a convenient online public portal that will save business and government time and money.
• Digital First & Digital Transformation – transforming existing legacy systems and accelerating the ministry’s transition to digital, modern, user-centered service offerings.

Strategy 5 – Deliver infrastructure and services with greater rigor, through re-calibrated capital plans, smart rehabilitation investments, and strengthened agency oversight

• GO Rail Expansion - advance the GO Rail Expansion program through critical procurements and infrastructure work along the corridors.
• Ontario’s New Subway Transit Plan for the GTA - MTO will work with partners to advance the four priority transit projects.
• Priority Highway Capital Projects – Make important investments in highway renewal and expansion projects throughout the provincial network.
• Smart Rehabilitation Investments – ensure a state of good repair of our assets by making smart rehabilitation investments.

COVID‑19 response

The Ministry of Transportation has initiated several measures and initiatives to combat COVID‑19 and reduce the financial burdens that Ontarians are currently facing. Key actions include:

Supporting the commercial carrier industry

• Support the trucking industry through the Provincial Antigen Screening Program (Ministry of Health) which allows employers in priority settings to add an additional safety measure and launched the free 511 app for all truck drivers, enabling access to rest areas and sanitation facilities.
• Enacted emergency provisions of the Highway Traffic Act during the second State of Emergency, which allowed provincially regulated carriers transporting essential supplies to be eligible for important operating exemptions.
• Supported the safety of Ontario’s Truck drivers by delivering a COVID‑19 Testing for Truck Drivers Pilot and Emergency child-care services for Class A and Class D licenses up until June 26, 2020.

Delivering essential services

• The validity period of driver, vehicle and carrier products which expired on or after March 1, 2020 was extended into 2021-2022 to combat COVID‑19.
• Safety on Provincial Ferry & Air Services – Worked with our partners to implement Transport Canada COVID‑19 related interim measures on both ferry services and winter air service operations.
• Committed resources to ensure that Remote Airports continue uninterrupted operations and deliver essential supplies (food, fuel, water, etc.) and services.
• To help address the backlog of passenger road tests, the ministry is working with its service provider to add 84 new Driver Examiners.

Supporting partnerships

• In partnership with the federal government, MTO is delivering up to $2.15 billion to Ontario municipalities, through the Safe Restart Agreement, to keep transit systems running.
• The ministry continues to work with service delivery partners and the courts to maintain services during the pandemic including the Licence Appeal Tribunal, Remedial Measures Program and Ignition Interlock Program.
• The ministry continues to tender the highway capital construction program to ensure there are adequate design projects for sustained construction activity throughout the 2021-22 season.

Ministry programs

Ministry Administration delivered by the Corporate Services Division provides high-quality, cost-effective business support, functional leadership, expert advice and services that meet the needs of the ministry and central agencies of government. This program provides leadership in several key areas, including:

• strategic planning and transformation initiatives
• business improvement and innovation tools, processes and supports
• financial planning and oversight, procurement and effective controllership
• development and delivery of a strategic human resource plan that aligns programs and services to ministry priorities
• operation of the Fleet Management Centre, on behalf of the Ontario Public Service (OPS), to manage all provincial motor vehicle fleet assets
• delivery of a strategic framework for diversity and inclusion and ensuring ministry awareness and compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)
• accommodations and facilities management, support and guidance
• leadership in the delivery of regional business support services
• functional leadership of ministry information management programs. Coordination of requests for access to Ministry of Transportation information under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

Agencies Oversight and Partnerships Program ensures MTO’s agencies align with government priorities and comply with legislation, regulations, directives and policies. The program also supports agency and municipal funding programs and oversees decision-making and delivery of transit and other infrastructure funding programs and investments.

The program is also responsible for managing the province's relationship with two Crown Agencies, Metrolinx and the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission (ONTC). Additionally, the program works to advance Ontario's strategic transportation objectives with other ministries and government agencies (e.g., Infrastructure Ontario), the federal government, other provinces, municipalities, and Indigenous communities. Major initiatives include, but are not limited to:

• transforming the GO rail network into a comprehensive, all-day rapid transit network by providing two-way all-day service across core segments of the GO rail network through the GO Rail Expansion Program
• supporting municipal transit projects across the province
• supporting the implementation of the Building Transit Faster Act, 2020 measures, in order to streamline project delivery and support the accelerated completion of priority transit projects
• building transportation partnerships with municipal and federal partners
• advancing Ontario’s “New Subway Transit Plan for the Greater Toronto Area (GTA)” on an accelerated basis, as announced in the 2019 Ontario Budget, including:
  • the Ontario Line
  • the Yonge North Subway Extension
  • the three-stop Scarborough Subway Extension
  • the Eglinton Crosstown West Extension

Transportation Safety develops and implements strategies to improve road safety and mobility through the promotion of responsible driving behaviour and motor vehicle safety.

Transportation Safety is undertaking a multi-year strategy to transform the way MTO and its partner ministries deliver driver and vehicle services to Ontarians and build a foundation for more effective and efficient delivery of people-centred digital services.

The ministry uses a hybrid model to deliver its programs where the government delivers core programs and third-party vendors deliver driver examination, card production, and driver and vehicle registration services.

The transformation seeks to improve these current business models to meet growing business and citizen expectations for on-demand integrated services, real-time data and digital communications/delivery channels.

Transportation Infrastructure Management Program is responsible for infrastructure investment, asset management, design and engineering, and capital delivery activities related to provincial infrastructure.

The program continues to explore and implement improved and more environmentally friendly techniques and materials for asphalt paving, pavement preservation and concrete construction. Specialized laboratory testing of materials, including asphalt, cement, concrete, steel and aggregates for road and bridge construction continues and will be supported by a new facility in Toronto to replace the existing laboratories.

Provincial transportation infrastructure including highway and bridge rehabilitation efforts are planned to support the sustainability of the provincial transportation network. In addition, new expansion projects are planned to improve the provincial highway network over the longer term. These projects will be delivered through various delivery models based on scope, schedule, cost and risk profile. This will include the use of Public-Private Partnerships (P3) with the support of Infrastructure Ontario (IO).

Information Technology activities involve maximizing benefits for Ontario Public Service business clients while supporting the corporate Information & Information Technology (I&IT) strategies and objectives. The ministry’s Labour and Transportation Cluster (LTC) is responsible for this work. Some initiatives are:

• delivering business value and enabling public policy delivery through the on-time, on-budget implementation of innovative technology projects that solve business problems, enhance program delivery, enable new business opportunities and improve customer service
• providing digital leadership to programs and projects by leading integrated, cross functional teams through user centred design, agile and iterative solutions development and extensive user feedback to shape the digital products and services being developed
• improving quality of IT services through establishing and consistently meeting or exceeding service levels, ensuring an integrated service delivery chain, improving communications and, simplifying and streamlining processes
• driving the adoption of information management best practices across client ministries

Integrated Policy and Planning Program develops transportation policies and plans to ensure that the mobility needs of Ontarians are integrated and addressed. It is responsible for identifying the long-term, strategic interests of the province with respect to Ontario's transportation system for all modes. It develops policies, plans and programs to support an efficient, safe, sustainable, integrated, and future-ready transportation system in Ontario.

The program works to advance Ontario's strategic transportation objectives with other ministries and government agencies, the federal government, other provinces, municipalities, and Indigenous communities. Initiatives include, but are not limited to:

• working on regional long-range planning to meet the province’s future transportation needs
• preparing Ontario’s transportation system for the deployment of connected and automated vehicles (CV/AVs)

The Operations Program oversees the operations and maintenance of the provincial highway network and related transportation services (including year-round highway maintenance) to protect and maximize the effectiveness of public investments in highway infrastructure. The Operations Program also provides airport services in 29 remote northern communities, traveller information services to the motoring public, and supports 11 ferry services across the province, either directly or through the Owen Sound Transportation Company (OSTC), an agency of the Ministry of Transportation.

2021-22 Strategic plan

COVID‑19 response

Corporate Services Division

• Collaborating with MGCS and Infrastructure Ontario (IO) in the implementation of daily enhanced cleaning at MTO facilities as well as one-time focused enhanced cleaning when required as a response to positive COVID‑19 cases.
• Providing guidance and support to divisions in preparation of MTO’s workplaces for the return to the workplace following IO’s Gradual Re-Opening of OPS Workplaces (GROW) guidelines including floor capacity planning, signage, directional floor wayfinding decals and plexiglass barriers as required.

Safe Restart Agreement and municipal transit

• Providing $650 million of funding for municipal transit systems to address COVID‑19 related impacts up to December 31, 2021, with extensions to December 2022 granted on a case-by-case basis. Priority is to compensate financial pressures due to reduced ridership and costs incurred as a direct impact of COVID‑19.
• Partnering with municipalities to explore options to ensure the safety, sustainability, integration and affordability of local transit, both during COVID‑19 and beyond.

Driver vehicle and carrier products

• The validity period of driver, vehicle and carrier products which expired on or after March 1, 2020 was extended into 2021-2022 to combat COVID‑19.
• The Transportation Safety Division is establishing a plan to resume passenger vehicle road tests and substantially reduce the number of deferred tests resulting from cancellations resulting from COVID‑19.
• Due dates for medical or vision reports were extended by 60 days or more.
• Senior Driver Group Education Sessions were suspended until further notice and driver’s licences are to be issued to senior drivers impacted by this decision.

Commercial carriers

• Supporting the trucking industry during the COVID‑19 outbreak, including keeping all 23 ONroute Centres open for take-out, grab and go, and drive-through services. Truck parking remains available at all stations. ONroute is allowing access to washrooms and have implemented enhanced cleaning measures to ensure the safety of patrons.
• Messaging has been provided for Variable Message Signs and Portable Variable Message Signs regarding the closure of the US border to all non-essential travel.
• The ministry has enabled the delivery of in-class driver training programs via virtual classroom for driver training courses such as Entry-Level Training (ELT) for all commercial class A truck drivers.
• The ministry continues to support the trucking industry through the Provincial Antigen Screening Program (Ministry of Health) which allows employers in priority settings to add an additional safety measure in high-risk and essential workplaces.
  • Through this program, rapid antigen point-of-care tests (POCTs) will be distributed to organizations in priority settings, to enhance existing routine screening measures for asymptomatic employees and other identified groups.
  • Rapid antigen POCTs may allow for workplaces to proactively identify cases of COVID‑19 that may have otherwise been missed, supporting employee safety and business continuity in a variety of workplaces.

Highways and marine operations

• Measures include physical distancing on ferry operations, support for remote airports to ensure continuation of essential material shipments and the use of the new free 511 app providing truck drivers with immediate access to information.

Summary of key decisions approved for 2021-22

GO Rail Expansion - MTO will continue to work with Metrolinx to advance the implementation of the GO Rail Expansion program. Work to deliver the program is already well underway and will continue throughout 2021-22 on critical procurements, including additional infrastructure work along the corridors. The GO Rail Expansion program directly supports Ontario’s commitment to expand GO rail service and transform the GO rail network into a comprehensive, all-day rapid transit network.

Ontario’s New Subway Transit Plan for the GTA - MTO will work with Metrolinx and Infrastructure Ontario to continue planning, preliminary design and procurement work in order to advance delivery of the four priority transit projects announced as part of the 2019 Ontario Budget – the Scarborough Subway Extension, the Eglinton Crosstown West Extension, the Ontario Line and the Yonge North Subway Extension. The four priority transit projects were a key component of the province’s 2019 Budget commitment to build transit and expand service.

Committing $1 billion in capital funding towards Hamilton LRT - In February 2021, the government confirmed its commitment of $1 billion in capital funding towards a meaningful LRT for the City of Hamilton and continues to work with the federal government to seek a contribution from them for the project, which has been added as a fifth priority transit project for the province.

Highway 6 and 401 Expansion - MTO is moving forward with advance work on the Highway 6 and 401 expansion to reduce congestion, improve road safety, and make it easier for people travelling between Hamilton and Guelph. This project is part of the province’s long-term transportation plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe to ensure our future transportation system supports continued prosperity and quality of life. The advance work includes the construction of the new mid-block interchange on Highway 6 north of Highway 401.

Bradford Bypass - The ministry will proceed with early works on the Bradford Bypass project, an expansion linking Highway 400 to Highway 404. The project will drive economic activity, be a significant source of employment, and enhance the movement of goods and people along Ontario’s highways and strategic trade corridors.

Digital First Investment - The ministry is continuing forward with its Digital First Strategy and investments with cross-business collaboration to provide citizen-centred services to Ontarians and businesses. This results-driven project to make government work better, uses modern approaches, tools and practices that put the needs of Ontarians first in the development of products, policies, programs or services.

Transportation Safety Transformation (TSTx, former RUSTx) Program – The ministry introduced a new foundational registration and licensing system and has moved all commercial transportation programs to it. MTO is investing to expand the system, move additional programs to it and introducing digital services.

• Phase 3, commencing in April 2021, represents the largest and most complex digital transformation effort to date, transforming all remaining driver and vehicle program areas and decommissioning aging, at-risk legacy technology and applications. MTO is engaging a vendor to lead the Phase 3 strategic planning and business case development this year.

Carrier Digital Transformation Program - includes the following initiatives:

• Online Carrier Record - improving commercial vehicle clients’ ability to access their safety records online and in real time, in response to the ministry’s OAGO commitment from the 2015 Student Transportation Audit
• MTO Carrier App (Release 1.0) – to serve as a resource for carriers
• CVOR New Application (Release 1.0) – transformed process for Commercial Vehicle Operator Registration applications
• Carrier Data Reporting & Analytics – to enable insights-driven decision making

Northeastern Rail – Working with Metrolinx and Ontario Northland Transportation Commission (ONTC) to take the next step in improving passenger rail service in the northeast and providing people with a safe, reliable and convenient travel option.

Supporting Low Carbon Technologies - MTO will continue to move forward with low carbon vehicle (LCV) commitments including: improving rules and removing regulatory barriers that block private investors from deploying low-carbon refueling infrastructure without government subsidies; supporting the development of Ontario’s Hydrogen Strategy; attracting production mandates for electric vehicles (EVs) and enabling the private sector to develop a province-wide network of EV infrastructure; and reviewing locations for alternative fueling stations, including electric and hydrogen.

A Regulatory Framework for Towing - In response to Ontario’s provincial towing task force recommendations, the province intends to propose legislation that would provide a comprehensive provincial oversight framework for the towing and storage sectors.

Supporting Environmental Assessment Modernization - MTO will continue to work with MECP to update the MTO Class EA process in support of EA modernization objectives.

Supporting Connected and Automated Vehicle (CV/AV) Technologies - MTO will continue preparing Ontario’s transportation system for the deployment of new vehicle technologies and supporting the Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade (MEDJCT) in implementing Driving Prosperity, Ontario’s plan for the future of the automotive sector, which is positioning Ontario as the North American leader in the adoption of advanced manufacturing and mobility technologies, such as connected and automated vehicles.

Transportation Initiative Fund (TIF) for Indigenous Communities and Organizations - MTO is launching a new competitive, application-based funding program open to Indigenous communities and organizations in Ontario to put forward transportation-related project proposals that help address community needs and advance key areas of interest, that align with MTO priorities. The TIF will enable Indigenous communities and organizations to advance transportation-related initiatives that encourage capacity-building and involve culturally and locally responsive solutions.

Moving Ontarians More Safely (MOMS) Act - MTO is proposing a package of new legislative, regulatory and public education measures aimed at improving road safety by targeting aggressive and high-risk driving behaviors. Of particular concern to MTO is a growing trend of stunt driving, speeding and other aggressive driving behaviours that have increased over the last few years and especially during the COVID‑19 pandemic, according to police reports and preliminary data.

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Total Expense: $6,232,825,900

(Ministry Total Expense Including Consolidation and Other Adjustments. Note graph excludes adjustments for General Real Estate Portfolio (GREP) ($10,218,800) and Ontario Infrastructure and Lands Corporation (IO) ($5,003,900))

Detailed financial information

Ontario's transportation network connects us to the global marketplace and to one another. MTO invests in the long-term infrastructure maintenance, renewal and expansion of this network. Major programs include planning for and investing in transit, highways, bridges, strategic corridors, and advancing driver and vehicle safety.

The year-over-year variance between 2020-21 and 2021-22 is mainly due to one-time funding through the Safe Restart Program and other time-limited funding related to COVID‑19. Other variances are due to the alignment of funding with construction timelines for municipal infrastructure projects that are either partially or fully funded through Federal contributions such as Public Transit Infrastructure Fund (PTIF) and Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP).

For additional financial information, see:

• Expenditure Estimates
• The Public Accounts of Ontario 2019-20

Agencies, boards and commissions (ABCs)

Ontario Highway Transport Board

The Ontario Highway Transport Board (OHTB) is a quasi-judicial agency that reports to MTO and is responsible for administering the economic regulatory regime for the public vehicle/intercommunity bus industry, as set out in the Public Vehicles Act. The OHTB considers applications for public vehicle licences based on public necessity and convenience criteria and performs a related adjudicative function, as requested.

The government is taking steps to dissolve the OHTB in conjunction with the deregulation the intercommunity bus sector. The target date for deregulation and OHTB dissolution is July 1, 2021, when the legislation is expected to be proclaimed into force. At that point, the OHTB will have no further function.

Metrolinx

Metrolinx was created in 2006 and has a mandate to provide leadership in the co-ordination, planning, financing, development and implementation of an integrated transit network in the Greater Golden Horseshoe (GGH). It is responsible for the operation of the GO Transit system, the PRESTO fare card system, the Union-Pearson (UP) Express and the implementation of regional rapid transit projects, including the priority transit projects identified in Ontario’s “New Subway Transit Plan for the GTA.” Metrolinx also acts on behalf of municipalities as a central procurement agency for local transit system vehicles, equipment, technologies, and related supplies and services.

Ontario Northland Transportation Commission (ONTC)

ONTC’s mandate is to provide efficient, safe and reliable transportation services in Northern Ontario. Current business lines include: the Polar Bear Express (PBX) passenger rail service between Cochrane and Moosonee; intercommunity bus service throughout Northern Ontario connecting to Toronto, Ottawa, Thunder Bay and into Manitoba to Winnipeg; rail freight services from North Bay to Hearst across the northeast Highway 11 corridor, with a rail line extending into Quebec; rail remanufacturing and repair services; and real estate management, including the Station Inn Hotel in Cochrane.

Owen Sound Transportation Company, Limited

The Owen Sound Transportation Company (OSTC) is a share capital corporation incorporated pursuant to the Business Corporations Act (Ontario). The OSTC delivers marine (vehicle and passenger) services from Tobermory to South Baymouth aboard the M.S. Chi-Cheemaun, and between Moosonee and Moose Factory Island using the M.V. Niska 1 ferry. The OSTC also operates the Pelee Island ferry seasonally (with air service in the winter) by contract.

Ministry organization chart

April 1, 2021

• Deputy Minister - Laurie LeBlanc
  • Associate Deputy Minister, Policy, Planning & Agency Relations - John Lieou
    • ADM, Integrated Policy & Planning - Ian Freeman
      • Director, Systems Planning - Tija Dirks
      • Director, Transportation Policy - Tasneem Essaji
      • Director, Strategic Policy & Transportation Economics - Elizabeth Kay-Zorowski
      • Director, Indigenous Relations - Gurpreet Sidhu-Dhanoa
      • Director, System Optimization Policy - Megan Chochla
    • ADM, Agency Oversight & Partnerships - James Nowlan
      • Director, Metrolinx & Agency Oversight - Krista Adams
      • Director, Municipal Programs - James Pearce
      • Director, Capital Projects Oversight - Vrinda Vaidyanathan
      • Director, Toronto-Ontario Priority Projects - Mirrun Zaveri
    • ADM, Transportation Infrastructure Management - Jennifer Graham Harkness
      • Director, Standards & Specifications - Tony Tuinstra
      • Director, Asset Management - Michelle Pasqua
      • Director, Design & Engineering - Steven Mcinnis
      • Director, Capital Delivery - Neil Zohorsky
    • ADM, Operations - Eric Doidge
      • Director, East Operations - Jeff Hudebine
      • Director, Northeast Operations - Herb Villneff
      • Director, Northwest Operations - Franca Sacchetti
      • Director, West Operations - Geoffrey Gladdy
      • Director, Central Operations - Becca Lane
      • Director, Transportation User Services - Alain Beaulieu
      • Director, Highway Operations Management - Jasan Boparai
    • ADM, Transportation Safety - Shelley Unterlander
      • Director, Commercial Inspection & Enforcement - Parm Bhatthal
      • Director, Commercial Safety & Compliance Branch - Virginia McKimm
      • Director, Safety Program Development - Beth O’Connor
      • Director, Driver & Vehicle Services - Logan Purdy
      • Director, Project Planning & Delivery - Brenda Augerman-Audette
      • Director, Program Oversight & Integrity - Ben Sopel
    • ADM, Corporate Services - Ramneet Aujla
      • Director, Business Support Services - Shaleena Kitchlu
      • Director, Strategic HR Branch - Jay Naik
      • Director, Strategy, Improvement & Innovation - Maria Tejeda
      • Director, Finance Branch - Felix Fung
    • ADM & CIO, Labour & Transportation Cluster, I&IT - Wynnann Rose
      • Director, TS Solutions Delivery Branch - Roman Corpuz
      • Director, Operations, Maintenance and Support - Ed Bennett
      • Director, Project Management & Program Delivery Branch - Leah Nemirovski
      • Director, Ministry Engagement and Advisory - Marc Faubert
      • Director, MTO/MLTSD Solutions Delivery - Claudio De Rose
      • Director, Special Project - John Miniaci
    • Director, Communications Branch - Laurie Menard

Appendix: 2019-20 Annual report

COVID‑19 response

Corporate Services Division efforts

• Collaborated with the Ministry of Government and Consumer Services (MGCS) and Infrastructure Ontario (IO) in the implementation of daily enhanced cleaning at MTO facilities as well as one-time focused enhanced cleaning when required as a response to positive COVID‑19 cases.
• Procured and installed plexiglass dividers and barriers at public facing counters and within high traffic areas where physical distancing is not an option.
• Provided guidance and support to divisions in preparation of MTO’s workplaces for the return to the workplace following IO’s Gradual Re-Opening of OPS Workplaces (GROW) guidelines including floor capacity planning, signage and directional floor wayfinding decals.

Driver vehicle and carrier products

• The ministry extended the validity of government driver, vehicle and carrier products and services that expired on March 1, 2020 to reduce the need for in-person service during the COVID‑19 outbreak, until further notice.
• All full-time DriveTest Centres and part-time Travel Point locations were closed until further notice to promote social distancing and contain the spread of the virus.
• On June 22, 2020, DriveTest Centres gradually re-opened all 56 DriveTest Centres to ensure that strict protocols are in place to prevent the spread of COVID‑19.
• Between November 20, 2020 and March 31, 2021, pursuant to the province’s Keeping Ontario Safe and Open Framework, various restrictions were put in place to prohibit applicants who reside in a region in Grey (Lockdown) from attending a DriveTest centre in another region in addition to restrictions on passenger testing in lockdown regions.
• As of December 21, 2020, commercial road testing resumed to ensure the continued safe movement of essential goods and services.

Commercial carriers

• The ministry provided messaging for Variable Message Signs and Portable Variable Message Signs on the closure of the US border to all non-essential travel.
• Effective April 8, 2020, the ministry temporarily removed (until further notice) travel restrictions for Long Combination Vehicle (LCV) Program participants, allowing travel on the evening preceding and the last evening before a holiday/long weekend.
• The ministry, in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Ontario Health, conducted a pilot focused on delivering provincially-covered COVID‑19 testing to long-haul, cross-border truck drivers. The pilot allowed truck drivers to access voluntary testing on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Public Outreach and Education efforts

• Enabling adoption of digital practices by expanding its digital outreach with the addition of virtual education sessions, creation of animated educational videos, and increased number of digital educational materials such as e-toolkits.
• The ministry continues to build upon existing public education and awareness efforts to reinforce measures aimed at influencing driver and road user behaviour across the province through digital channels and leveraging partner social media networks.

Labour and Transportation Cluster efforts

• Created the Transportation Recovery Dashboard to monitor recovery of the transportation sector and mobility across the province during the ongoing COVID‑19 pandemic. The dashboard covers 6 categories and 23 indicators and includes weekly reports that highlight the changes to indicators.
• Ontario 511 mobile app was launched as a pilot to support the trucking industry in response to the COVID‑19 pandemic and went live October 9, 2020. The app was updated November 19, 2020 to provide both Public and Trucker modes to expand use to all drivers across the province. App users may select either Trucker Mode or Public Drive Mode to focus on the information they need most while travelling.
• Introduced an emergency regulation to the Highway Traffic Act (HTA) to extend the validity of Driver, Vehicle and Carrier products and services set to expire on or after March 1, 2020.

Marine

• Implemented physical distancing processes on all ferry operations which include having passengers remain in their vehicles where possible and ensuring COVID-related measures announced by Transport Canada are appropriately implemented.
• The Pelee-Sandusky ferry service was suspended and will not be reinstated until Canadian and U.S. governments re-open the border to non-essential travel.

Safe Restart Agreement and municipal transit

• Ontario worked in collaboration with our federal partners to deliver up to $2 billion to help Ontario municipalities keep their transit systems running and relieve financial pressures created by COVID‑19 as part of the Safe Restart Agreement (SRA).
• Two phases of SRA funding were made available for COVID-related financial pressures incurred by municipal transit systems in 2020-21:
  • Under Phase 1, over $700 million, including needs-based top-ups, was flowed in October 2020 to 108 municipalities across the province for COVID related financial impacts incurred between April 1, 2020 and September 30, 2020.
  • For Phase 2, up to $800 million will be made available for COVID-related financial impacts incurred between October 1, 2020 and March 31, 2021, and is expected to flow in Spring 2021.
    Recognizing the ongoing impact COVID‑19 is having on transit systems and ridership, Ontario has extended the Safe Restart Agreement and is providing $650 million, which includes $500 million in existing SRA funding plus an additional $150 million of provincial funding, for COVID-related financial impacts to municipal transit systems beyond March 31, 2021.
• Ontario also provided up to $15 million in funding to support additional enhanced cleaning of municipal public transit systems and help reduce the transmission of COVID‑19. Municipalities received allocations based on ridership plus a base allocation of $500 for eligible expenses incurred between April 1, 2020 and December 31, 2020.

Metrolinx

• Metrolinx has implemented over 40 permanent safety protocols that have helped limit the spread of COVID‑19 and prevented outbreaks on trains and buses. The safety protocols include mandatory masks, additional personal protective equipment for staff, employee health checks, upgraded hospital-grade ventilation and sanitization, installing shatter-proof plexiglass barriers between seats on trains and buses.
• Metrolinx has made service adjustments to GO Transit and UP Express Service throughout the year as it balanced the need to adjust to reductions in ridership while maintaining transit service for essential travel.

Ontario Northland Transportation Commission

• Put in place a number of new health and safety protocols including mandatory masks, increased cleaning of vehicles and stations, limited seating capacity, and passenger health screening.
• Adjusted service levels to reflect the changing situation, and address concerns in the local community.

Owen Sound Transportation Company

• Implemented a number of new health and safety protocols, including reducing capacity, removing seating to allow for social distancing, increased cleaning and passenger health screening for both ferry service and winter air service.

Ontario Rebuilding and Recovery Act, 2020

• To accelerate the delivery of priority infrastructure projects, the Government of Ontario passed a multi-ministry package of legislative measures, policy changes, and consultation opportunities.
• As part of this package, the Ontario Rebuilding and Recovery Act, 2020, made a series of legislative amendments to accelerate the delivery of major provincial public infrastructure projects, such as transit and highways.
• Measures in the Act helped the province to:
  • streamline processes and reduce barriers to help mitigate unnecessary delays in permitting and construction
  • make Ontario more competitive and boost the province’s economic recovery from the COVID‑19 pandemic
  • modernize how key infrastructure projects are built, creating more efficient delivery of much needed public services, such as long-term care and increased broadband coverage while providing better value on provincial investments
  • build smarter to get shovels in the ground faster for long-term care homes in places like Mississauga, Ajax, Toronto, better connected highway and public transit networks, and transit-oriented communities

Transit safety guidance

• Guidance published in June 2020 that provided COVID‑19 related safety advice to transit users and transit providers

Stakeholder engagement

• In May 2020, Ontario’s Minister of Transportation established the Transportation Ministerial Advisory Council to help assess the impact of the COVID‑19 pandemic on the transportation sector, focus on what the future of the transportation sector could look like, and bring concrete ideas and third-party perspectives to the government’s recovery plans.

  The Council helped inform and shape the ministry’s recovery efforts by recommending getting critical infrastructure projects built, attracting more jobs and investments, and cutting red tape to support municipal partners and help businesses thrive.

2020-21 Results

Enhancing accountability and agency oversight

• On November 27, 2020, the ministry and Metrolinx executed an updated Memorandum of Understanding between the Chair of Metrolinx and the Minister of Transportation clarifying the powers, authorities, accountability relationships and roles and responsibilities between the ministry and Metrolinx.
• On October 1, 2020, an updated Memorandum of Understanding between the Chair of the ONTC and the Minister of Transportation, which clarifies the roles and responsibilities of both the ministry and the agency, was executed.
• On October 1, 2020, the Minister issued a mandate letter to the Chair of the ONTC and a mandate letter to the Chair of Metrolinx outlining priorities for the 2021-22 fiscal year. The letters are to ensure that the agencies act in the best interests of Ontarians by being efficient and effective, providing value for money to taxpayers.
• On December 8, 2020, amendments to the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission Act received Royal Assent and came into effect. The amendments enhanced ministerial oversight and improved alignment with other modern agency statutes and structures, like the Metrolinx Act and Metrolinx.

Increasing transit options by connecting more people to places

• In May 2020, the ONTC launched an extended bus route from Sault Ste. Marie to Thunder Bay (via White River), as well as new bus service from Thunder Bay to Winnipeg (via Dryden and Kenora). Service from Thunder Bay to Winnipeg was expanded in September 2020 to include stops in Emo, Atikokan and Fort Frances.

Advancing priority transit projects in Ontario’s “New Subway Transit Plan for the Greater Toronto Area (GTA)”

• On May 28, 2020 the “Ontario-York Region Transit Partnership” was formalized through the “Ontario-York Region Transit Partnership Preliminary Agreement”, which forms the foundation for the continued collaboration and partnership between York Region and the province in advancing the YNSE, one of the four priority transit projects.
• On July 8, 2020, the Building Transit Faster Act, 2020 (BTFA) came into force, introducing measures that streamline project delivery and support the accelerated completion of the four priority transit projects identified in Ontario’s “New Subway Transit Plan for the GTA.”
• The BTFA was designed to address issues and challenges common to the planning, design, and delivery of major transit projects. The BTFA measures are intended to reduce the time and costs associated with potential delays in delivering provincial transit projects.
• The measures in the BTFA help ensure that Metrolinx, the provincial agency responsible for delivering provincial transit projects, is able to apply a consistent toolkit, as needed, to accelerate the delivery of key provincial transit projects, as well as create jobs and economic benefits for communities.
• On December 8, 2020 the Ontario Rebuilding and Recovery Act, 2020 (ORRA) received Royal Assent and is now in force. The ORRA included provisions that amended the BTFA to enable the extension of the suite of measures, as applicable, to other provincial transit projects by providing regulation making authority to prescribe projects.

Building Transit Oriented Communities

• The province continues to collaborate with the City of Toronto and York Region to implement Transit Oriented Communities under the respective transit partnership agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MOU).
  • In May 2020, the province and York Region entered into a MOU to support implementation of Transit Oriented Communities which mirrors the MOU that was entered into with the City of Toronto in January 2020.
• On July 21, 2020, Ontario passed the Transit-Oriented Communities Act, which will rethink the relationship between transit, housing, and commercial spaces and enable more timely construction of vibrant communities around transit stations along the routes of the province’s four priority subway projects. The legislation enables streamlined land assembly through exemptions from Hearings of Necessity and allows the province to enter into new commercial agreements with partners to deliver Transit-Oriented Communities.
• Through the Ontario Rebuilding and Recovery Act, 2020 (Bill 222), the province introduced amendments to the Transit-Oriented Communities Act that would allow for application of the Act to be extended to additional priority transit projects such as GO Rail Expansion and LRT projects via future regulations. The Bill received Royal Assent on December 8, 2020.

Improving GO Transit service

• The province is transforming the existing GO Transit commuter rail system into a comprehensive, all-day rapid transit network by implementing the GO Rail Expansion program.
• GO Rail Expansion will provide two-way, all-day service, every 15 minutes on core segments of the GO Transit rail network. These improvements will provide greater access to GO Transit and enable seamless rail travel throughout the GTHA. Key milestones achieved this year include:
  • Start of construction of the new Lincolnville GO station
  • Official opening of the new Union Station Bus Terminal
  • Opening of the new bus terminal at Kipling GO station
• In response to COVID‑19, GO Transit has been adjusting service levels to match demand and continue to support people getting where they need to go for essential trips. GO rail extensions are also being planned to bring faster and more frequent service on the Kitchener GO corridor. Key milestone achieved is the completed excavation of the second of two tunnels under Highways 401 and 409. Procurement related work is also underway in the corridor from Georgetown to Kitchener to enable service expansion.

Advancing regional rapid transit projects

• Metrolinx has made progress on key rapid transit projects, including:
  • The Eglinton Crosstown light rail transit (LRT) project: construction continues to progress at all stations and the surface rail section and stops.
  • The Hurontario LRT project: construction is underway on the project including the Maintenance and Storage Facility in Brampton.
  • The Finch West LRT project: construction continues on the project, including the Maintenance and Storage Facility and at the underground Finch West Station where the project will connect with the TTC’s Line 1.
• The Hamilton LRT project: upon further technical analysis on the recommendations of the Hamilton Transportation Task Force, the government confirmed its commitment of $1 billion in capital funding towards a meaningful LRT in the City of Hamilton, and will continue to work with the federal government to secure federal funding for the project.

Implementing the PRESTO fare card

• Metrolinx continues to implement the PRESTO fare card system across the GTHA and in Ottawa:
  • PRESTO is operational on 11 transit systems across the GTHA and Ottawa (i.e., Brampton Transit, Burlington Transit, Durham Region Transit, Hamilton Street Railway, MiWay [Mississauga], Oakville Transit, OC Transpo [Ottawa], TTC, York Region Transit, GO Transit and UP Express).
  • Within the TTC transit network, PRESTO is available on all streetcars, buses, Wheel-Trans vehicles and accessible taxis, and at least one entrance to all subway stations. PRESTO Self-Serve Reload Machines are available at stations for customers to instantly load PRESTO cards, check account balances and activity, and check the status of autoloads or registration.
• Metrolinx also introduced new PRESTO fare payment devices at select GO stations for a trial period. The new devices have a new design, including larger screens that display information in a clearer and more intuitive manner, enhancing both user experience and accessibility. The new devices have the capability to read e-Tickets and support payment by credit, debit and mobile phones for future modernization planning.

Supporting municipal transit systems

• The province committed up to $1.2 billion towards an expansion of the City of Ottawa’s LRT network that will add 44 kilometres of rail and 24 new stations. The Stage 2 project will extend the Confederation Line east to Trim Road, west to Moodie Drive and southwest to Algonquin College. The Trillium Line will be extended south to Limebank Road, with a link to the Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport.
• Through the province’s 2020-21 Gas Tax Program, 109 municipalities in 144 communities received funding that can be used towards service improvements. These communities represent more than 92 per cent of the total population of Ontario. A total of $375.1 million has been committed for the 2020-21 program.
  • The ministry recognizes the impact that COVID‑19 has had on municipal transit systems in 2020. It will continue to monitor the impacts on municipal transit ridership and the availability of funding that is generated from the sale of gasoline, as these influence the Gas Tax allocations for the 2021-22 program.
• Through the Community Transportation Grant Program, which is funded through provincial gas tax revenue, the province is providing up to $30 million over five years to 38 municipalities to support local and intercommunity transportation projects in areas that are unserved or underserved by such services.
• The Public Transit stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP) will unlock $8.3 billion in federal funding and $7.3 billion in provincial funding for the construction, expansion and improvement of public transit networks across Ontario. Since the launch of the program in 2019, over 200 municipal projects have been approved for funding.
  • The ICIP is a federal, provincial and municipal cost-shared program designed to create long-term economic growth, build inclusive, sustainable and resilient communities and support a low-carbon economy.

Owen Sound Transportation Company

• To provide improvements to community service, OSTC implemented a new cloud-base reservation system that will improve the reservation experience for users, protect the privacy of information and provide improved reporting of ferry service usage.
• OSTC completed planned capital renewal work on the Chi-Cheemaun and maintenance of its vessels to support service to the users of the ferry services.

Strengthening relationships with Indigenous peoples

• The province is partnering with Constance Lake First Nation and investing $3.5 million to rehabilitate Highway 663; this project provides economic opportunity and skill development for the Constance Lake First Nation community, while improving important highway infrastructure.
• The ministry provided capacity funding to Indigenous communities and organizations to facilitate First Nations and Métis communities’ participation in the consultation process for infrastructure projects.
• The ministry fulfilled all Constitutional Duty to Consult obligations when ministry initiatives had the potential to adversely impact Aboriginal and treaty rights.
• The ministry has launched Virtual Regional Roundtables with the focus of bringing together MTO staff and Indigenous communities and organizations to take part in open dialogue about specific transportation interests. The regional roundtables will occur on a quarterly basis and are intended to be an additional opportunity to connect with MTO on matters of mutual interest and share information with each other in a proactive way on an interest basis. Regional Roundtables do not replace MTO’s engagement and consultation on project-specific work with Indigenous communities and organizations.

Keeping Ontario’s transportation network safe

Promoting safer roads through legislation and regulation

• Ontario’s low fatality rate makes it the safest jurisdiction in North America. Based on 2018 data (most recent available), Ontario’s fatality rate was 0.58 per 10,000 licensed drivers, the lowest in Canada and lowest in North America.
• Created a school bus stop arm camera regulatory framework (effective September 1, 2020) so that the evidence from a camera would be able to stand alone in court without the need for a witness.
• Ontario made temporary regulatory amendments (May 18, 2020) in response to COVID‑19 court closures to ensure drivers convicted of a first-/second-time alcohol-related impaired driving offence remain eligible for MTO’s Reduced Suspension with Ignition Interlock Conduct Review Program. This program ensures drivers are closely monitored under strict guidelines and is proven to improve road safety outcomes.
• The Ministry has implemented a zero-blood alcohol requirement for driving instructors while providing instruction and an amendment that would ensure Ontario’s impaired driver sanctioning programs continue to operate effectively in light of the revised Criminal Code of Canada (CCC) (January 2021, December 2020).

Working closely with our road safety partners to enhance safety

• The Ministry continues to work at a grassroot level to develop an understanding of community needs and concerns related to transportation user safety, and leverage relationships with partners to address road safety priorities at a regional and provincial level with a lens on key groups such as Francophones, Indigenous, New Immigrants, Seniors etc.
• MTO uses a multi-faceted approach to communicate new legislative changes to road safety and awareness of best practices including:
  • updates on the ministry’s web site and targeted postings on ministry social media accounts
  • communications about road safety rules, initiatives and best practices through online messaging, digital shareables and education products
• MTO continues to assess behaviour and attitudes towards driving through surveys, allowing the ministry to evaluate the effectiveness of public awareness efforts on key road safety priorities. To respond to COVID‑19, MTO is enabling adoption of digital practices by expanding its digital outreach with the addition of virtual education sessions, creation of animated educational videos, and increased number of digital educational materials such as e-toolkits.

Commercial Safety & Compliance Branch

• In 2020, more than 48,000 safety inspections were conducted on commercial vehicles and drivers by Ministry of Transportation Officers, the Ontario Provincial Police and Municipal Police agencies:
  • 14,399 drivers/vehicles were placed out of service (OOS) with 10,387 inspections resulting in charges laid
  • 1,276 buses, including 615 school buses, were inspected with 106 buses, including 43 school buses, were placed out of service, and
  • 221 vehicles were impounded for critical defects
• During RoadCheck 2020 (a three-day random blitz benchmarking truck safety in Canada, the U.S. and Mexico), Ontario’s compliance rate was 84.0 per cent, which is comparable to 2019 when the compliance rate was 82.6 per cent.

Investing in highways, roads, bridges and other priority infrastructure

• The ministry continued to invest in infrastructure upgrades to improve highway trade corridors, manage congestion and increase capacity.
• In total, MTO committed more than $2.9 billion in 2020-21 to repair and expand provincial highways and bridges across Ontario.
• Overall, the improvement of approximately 537 centreline-km of provincial highway and 127 bridges was completed in 2020-21.
• In addition, 31 lane-km of new/widened highway and 3 new bridges were completed in 2020-21.

Improving Ontario’s bridge infrastructure

• Work to replace the superstructure of the Bay of Quinte Skyway, which began in 2019, continued in 2020. The second of five major segments of the bridge were replaced. Work on the remaining segments of this 850-metre-long bridge will be completed over subsequent years, with each year’s construction being made continuous with the previous year, the first such continuous construction of a major bridge in Ontario.
• MTO and the State of Minnesota jointly funded the replacement of the Rainy River – Baudette International Crossing Bridge at the Northwestern Ontario border with Minnesota. The new concrete deck on a steel girder bridge was built adjacent to the existing six span steel arch bridge and provides continuous cross border travel during construction. The bridge construction was completed in 2020.
• In 2020, work continued on the QEW Welland River bridge. The existing 18-span bridge, built on the last section of the original QEW which opened in 1941, is being replaced with a new five-span steel girder bridge, 298 metres in length. The bridge is being replaced in halves. Construction will proceed on the remainder of the bridge throughout fiscal 2021-22.
• Bayfield River Bridge, a two-span deck truss, is being replaced by a single span steel arch bridge of 70m span in order to reduce in-water work, reduce the environmental impacts and improve the watercourse. A detour bridge and substructure construction were completed in 2020, with the steel erection progressing over the winter. The remaining bridge construction is expected to be completed in 2021. This is the first MTO steel arch bridge constructed since 1960.
• Duchesnay River Bridge in North Bay on Highway 11B, a three-span, 83-metre-long timber bridge, is the longest timber span in MTO inventory and the first major timber bridge constructed since the 1990’s. It is comprised of glue-laminated timber girders with concrete deck for improved durability. Construction started in January 2020 with the new bridge expected to open in summer of 2021.
• Groundhog River Bridge on Highway 11 in Cochrane District is a two span through truss bridge that is being replaced by a four-span steel girder bridge of 190 metres in length. The bridge is using precast concrete to speed construction in this northern location. Construction started in late 2019, with most of the superstructure work done in 2020, and completion of the ancillary components (approach slabs, railings, paving) in 2021. The new bridge is expected to open in summer 2021 and the previous truss bridge will be removed in the fall.

Maintaining Ontario’s highways

• The ministry has also committed to expanding highways across the province. These include:
  • Highway 3 Essex to Leamington – widening 20.5 kilometres from two to four lanes, and
  • Highway 17 Arnprior to Renfrew – widening 22.5 kilometres from two to four lanes including four additional interchanges.
  • Highway 401 Tilbury to London (Phase 1) widening from four to six lanes
  • Bradford Bypass early works
  • Highway 6 and 401 advance work including the construction of the new mid-block interchange.
• The ministry continues to use the Contractor Directed Maintenance Contract (CDMC) model and the Ministry Directed Maintenance Contract (MDMC) model to maintain provincial highways.
• The ministry is a recognized leader in implementing new technologies to ensure the right amount of salt is distributed on the road at the right time. This is accomplished through a network of 169 Road Weather Information System (RWIS) stations (153 Regular stations and 16 Mini RWIS sites) that provide timely road and weather data. Electronic spreader controls are calibrated on trucks used for salt distribution to ensure that only the right amount of salt is delivered for the intensity of the storm. In 2020, the ministry also treated approximately 600 hectares of phragmites along the highway corridors to improve drainage, sightlines and minimize damage to highway infrastructure.

Connecting Links program

• The ministry continues to provide funding under the Connecting Links program to municipalities. In 2020-21, $40 million in funding was made available to 33 municipalities for the design, construction, renewal, rehabilitation and replacement of connecting link infrastructure.

Reducing environmental impact

• In order to raise awareness of green technologies and processes, MTO continued to use GreenPave, its simplified rating system that evaluates pavement sustainability in design and construction. In 2020, 27 GreenPave assessments were performed, results showed 4% of projects earned a Gold certification, 7% earned a Silver certification and 52% earned a Bronze certification.
• MTO encourages the reuse and recycling of materials on roadways as it conserves aggregate resources, minimizes processing and transport costs and reduces Green House Gas emissions. MTO is Ontario’s largest single consumer of aggregates – approximately 10-12 million tonnes annually. Up to 20% of the total amount of aggregate placed on MTO projects is recycled content.
• MTO has continued to show leadership in recycling asphalt pavements (cold in-place and hot in-place recycling), re-using existing materials, conserving large quantities of non-renewable aggregate resources, significantly reducing energy requirements and avoiding costly disposal. In 2020, MTO rehabilitated 87 lane-km of pavement using this environmentally friendly technique, saving over 65 million megajoules of energy, 62,202 tonnes of aggregate and emitting 3,895 fewer tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) compared to conventional methods.
• The ministry conducted two Rapid Bridge Replacements (RBR) last year to avoid lengthy construction related traffic congestion, both being a weekend closure type of superstructure replacement:
  • Highway 400 northbound and southbound lane overpasses over Finch Avenue in Toronto were replaced using jack and slide
  • Highway 417 eastbound and westbound lane overpasses over O-Train (Trillium Line) in Ottawa were replaced using heavy lift
• MTO also uses various forms of Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC) as well as Get In Get Out (GIGO) methods, to minimize traffic impacts during construction. ABC includes using precast components and rapid set concrete closure pours to tie them together. GIGO involve replacing a highway underpass by constructing several girder and deck segments near the site, closing the entire local road for about 45 to 60 days, completing substructure construction with as many precast components as possible, then moving the girder/deck segments into place during an overnight freeway closure and tying them together with rapid set concrete.

Highway construction

Southern Ontario key projects included:

• the QEW-Credit River Bridge improvement project in Mississauga, awarded in December 2020
• Highway 7 expansion project from Kitchener to Guelph; advance works to replace the Frederick Street underpass in the city of Kitchener, construction of the Woodlawn Road interchange in the City of Guelph and modification of the Guelph Junction railway
• construction of the Highway 401 widening project between Hespeler Road and Townline Road commenced

Northern Ontario key projects included:

• key projects delivered on behalf of Ministry of Energy, Northern Development and Mines (MENDM), including the following:
  • work on Highway 69 Parry Sound to Sudbury four-laning a 14-kilometre section south of Alban and the realignment of the Canadian National rail line at Highway 522
  • resurfacing west of Hwy 519 easterly, south of White River
  • resurfacing and culvert replacement; Hwy 553 easterly, Massey easterly

Driving organizational effectiveness and enabling innovation

Reducing red tape and increasing efficiencies

• Effective July 1, 2020, MTO made changes to add off-road motorcycles and extreme terrain vehicles to the existing list of off-road vehicles permitted on-road. These two new vehicle types are in addition to the previously permitted four-wheeled types. Municipalities continue to have the authority and make decisions about off-road vehicles through by-laws.
• Effective March 1, 2021, the ministry introduced a five-year pilot program to permit the use of larger cargo e-bikes on road. Municipalities will need to enact by-laws to permit their use. The pilot provides businesses more options for transporting goods and supports a globally competitive economy.
• Effective January 1, 2021, MTO implemented regulatory amendments related to enabling the early release of short-term vehicle impoundments for rental vehicles to allow enforcement to avoid unfairly penalizing the rental car industry if their vehicles were impounded.
• Effective July 1, 2020, an alternative option for holders of a class G licence or higher to obtain a licence to drive a three-wheeled motorcycle was introduced.
• Effective January 1, 2021, the ministry amended Regulation 628: Vehicle Permits under the HTA to remove restrictions on the use of dealer plates on pick-up trucks in the dealer’s inventory to permit them to be used for personal use and also to permit them to carry a load for personal use only (such as groceries, toys for the beach, picnic basket, etc.). The changes reduce burden on new and used motor vehicle dealers in Ontario, while ensuring compliance with the law and road user safety.

Supporting digital first investment (current accomplishments)

The ministry has been working actively to deliver early outcomes to Ontarians using the approved investments. These include:

• Paper Renewal Notice Elimination:
  • MTO is working with ODS and ServiceOntario to eliminate paper reminder notices for Driver’s Licences and Licence Plate Stickers and instead, provide a digital reminder Notify service that includes the option of receiving an email, SMS text or voice call. The Notify service was implemented March 2021; paper notice elimination timing is to be determined.
• Licence Plate Sticker Fulfillment:
  • Since the successful implementation of the online licence plate sticker project (Release 1 & 2), the back-office capacity for licence plate sticker processing as of Jan. 1, 2021 is as follows:
    • Daily 12,600
    • Weekly 63,000
    • Monthly 252,000
  • Backlog was reduced to zero by mid-August 2020. Licence plate sticker renewals have continued to be fulfilled and ready for Canada Post delivery within service expectations (5 business days) since August 2020.
• Ontario Photo Card (OPC) Online Renewal:
  • MTO has completed the first stages of the project (i.e., Discovery and Alpha phase) including user research and usability testing; target project implementation is June 2021 for new online channel for OPC holders to renew online instead of having to attend a ServiceOntario office.
• Patient Digital Identity Authentication and Authorization (PDIAA):
  • MTO has been working with Ontario Digital Services (ODS) and Ministry of Health (MOH) on an initiative to enable Ontarians to prove their identity remotely using a new Navigator or South Lake Application.
  • This provides patients at Niagara Regional Health, Southlake Regional Hospital, followed by St Joseph's Healthcare (Burlington) and North York General with ability to access health records, appointment booking and other healthcare services.
  • Phase 1 was implemented March 2021 includes identity verification using the Ontario Health Card along with banking information.
  • Phase 2 targeting June 2021 (TBC) will provide Ontarians the choice to use their Driver's Licence (DL) or Ontario Photo Card (OPC) along with their Health Card for identity verification instead of providing banking information.
  • MTO has completed March 2021 system changes, and developed a new Gateway; awaiting ODS, MOH and hospitals readiness to onboard MTO.
• Continuing innovation in Carrier Online Services
  • Implemented additional self-fulfilled online services for Oversize/Overweight Annual Permits as well as increased digital options for Commercial Vehicle Operators Registration products and services.

Ontario Truck Inspection Station Automation Project (OTAP)

The fourth and final inspection station, that is part of OTAP project, came online April 2020. This station is one of four inspection stations within Ontario that use pre-screening technology on the mainline and within the inspection station to support ministry enforcement officers by providing real-time alerts and metrics. This information promotes focused enforcement on high-risk vehicles and operators.

The OTAP project is comprised of 2 component technologies: pre-clearance and pre-screening.

• Pre-clearance has been integrated with all truck inspection stations across Ontario and is designed to pre-screen participant operators as their commercial vehicles approach a truck inspection station. Pre-defined business rules evaluate operator safety ratings and compliance metrics to determine if the vehicle is directed to enter the inspection station for further screening or be given a bypass. This will benefit good operators in various ways, including fuel savings and timely delivery of goods.
• Pre-screening equipment uses technology that further screens commercial vehicles once they enter a truck inspection station. This technology supports enforcement officer activities by providing alerts related to vehicle condition, operator credentials and axle/vehicle weights that enable officers to focus on higher-risk vehicles and operators.

Transportation Safety Transformation (TSTx, former RUSTx) Program

• Driver Medical Review (DMR): Online portal to submit, track and approve 250,000 medical cases annually.
• Digital Information Management & Analytics (DIMA): New cloud-based digital data warehouse for driver, vehicle, carrier, collisions data with online portal for self-service requests, new revenue opportunities and improved operational oversight and reporting Digital Document Management (DDM): Digitally stored documents enable a comprehensive view of a client and enhance user experience.
• Revenue Management (RM) - Analysis, solution design and development activities for the core solution on the corporate financial platform, along with data preparation and migration activities.

Towing Task Force

• In June 2020, the government established a towing task force led by the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) and the Solicitor General (SOLGEN), which was charged with exploring the merits of a provincial regulatory regime for the towing sector.
• After extensive consultation with ministry partners, key stakeholders and partners, including the automobile insurance sector, towing sector, municipalities, and law enforcement sectors, on March 2, 2021, MTO announced the government’s intention to propose new towing legislation that would, if passed, improve safety and clarity for customers, enhance standards for the sector, help to address some of the criminal conduct, and re-calibrate regulatory burdens. The government also announced it would be forming a new technical advisory group made up of representatives from these sectors.
• Additionally, the government announced on March 2, 2021 that it would be proceeding with a tow zone pilot on certain sections of provincial highways, and that a joint forces operation team would be created, involving a number of police forces to address criminal conduct in the sector.

Highway Traffic Act amendments for electric vehicle charging stations

• As of January 1, 2021, any vehicle parked in a designated electric vehicle (EV) charging parking space that is not attached to the charging station can be ticketed and on conviction, fined $125.
• These changes help ensure that public charging spaces are available for those who need to recharge their EVs.
• Investments made by businesses to install EV charging infrastructure are also protected through these new enforcement measures.

Preparing for connected and automated vehicles

• The province continues to prepare Ontario’s transportation system, in all regions, for the safe deployment of connected and automated vehicles (CV/AVs), through active research, testing, and pilots and collaboration with industry and all levels of government. The ministry continues to support Ontario’s Autonomous Vehicle Innovation Network (AVIN) in supporting small-to-medium-sized enterprises in developing, testing, demonstrating, and commercializing CV/AV technology in a variety of transportation applications.
• In partnership with MTO and Metrolinx, AVIN established the Ontario Smart Mobility Readiness Forum in June 2020 to support and address the challenges and needs faced by municipalities. The forum is intended to generate dialogue, discuss progress and exchange information among municipalities, public sector agencies, and infrastructure owner/operators across Ontario to support municipalities as they prepare for the implementation of CV/AV and other advanced technologies.

Environmental assessment and protection

• MTO worked with MECP to complete a streamlined EA process to support priority subway projects and initiated the development of streamlined EA exemption regulations for priority highway projects. This streamlining will better align the EA process with procurement approaches and reduce delays for critical transportation infrastructure and priority projects. These projects would still be subject to reporting and consultation requirements. Issues raised around environmental impacts would still be considered, following a transparent, consultative process, while balancing environmental protection.

Air quality and green house gasses

• MTO consulted on and posted the final Environmental Guide for Assessing and Mitigating Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Emissions of Provincial Transportation Projects, which provides a framework to estimate pollutant emissions and greenhouse gases to support the selection of a preferred route alternative and identification of potential mitigation measures

Increasing transit options by connecting more people to places

Transit-Oriented Communities Act, 2020

• Passed on July 21, 2020, this Act will rethink the relationship between transit, housing, and commercial spaces and enable more timely construction of vibrant communities around transit stations along the routes of the province’s four priority subway projects. The legislation enables streamlined land assembly through exemptions from Hearings of Necessity and allows the province to enter into new commercial agreements with partners to deliver Transit-Oriented Communities.
• Through the Ontario Rebuilding and Recovery Act, 2020 (Bill 222), the province introduced amendments to the Transit-Oriented Communities Act that would allow for application of the Act to be extended to additional priority transit projects such as GO Rail Expansion and LRT projects via future regulations. The Bill received Royal Assent on December 8, 2020.

Long-range transportation planning

• The ministry is continuing work to establish Ontario as a leader in building multimodal linkages, connecting roads, rail, air and marine transportation across the province.
• In December 2020, the province released its draft transportation plan for Northern Ontario, Connecting the North. The draft plan contains more than 60 transportation improvements that will get people moving and connect communities, enable economic opportunities, keep people safe and provide reliable transportation options, prepare for the future, maintain a sustainable transportation system, and provide reliable travel options for remote and Far North communities. The draft plan will be informed by further engagement in 2021-22 with municipal leaders, Indigenous communities, community leaders, business and the transportation service providers.
• In January 2021 the province established the southwest transportation task force with a group of local leaders (Mayors, Indigenous chiefs, and private sector) to provide recommendations on improving connections between transportation modes such as rail, bus, and local transit services across the region. The task force was one of more than 40 actions in Connecting the Southwest: A draft transportation plan for southwestern Ontario.
• The ministry is continuing to develop multi-modal transportation plans for Eastern Ontario as well as the Greater Golden Horseshoe to ensure connectivity for people and goods in these regions.

Transportation forecasting, modelling and information sharing

• The ministry has updated the multimodal travel demand model for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, to better enhance the ministry’s modelling capacity. The model is the main platform for travel demand modelling for MTO and Metrolinx initiatives in the Greater Golden Horseshoe.
• The ministry continues to apply its province-wide integrated multimodal transportation model, which provides a consistent way to forecast passenger and freight activity across all modes of transportation, with demographics and economic data, as a key enabling tool for multimodal planning.
• The ministry also continues to explore new technology and datasets. The ministry has partnered with Waze through their Connected Citizens Program to publish Waze reported real-time information on the Ontario511 website. The ministry is able to archive Waze traffic jam data to quantify congestion patterns on the provincial highway network published in iCorridor.

Options to improve intercommunity bus services

• Improving Ontario's intercommunity bus service is part of the government's priority to get people moving and connect people to places.
• In December 2020, the government passed legislation to remove the economic licensing regime in place for intercommunity bussing. Deregulating the intercommunity bus sector will support economic recovery, reduce red tape for business, and provide more travel options for Ontarians.
• The ministry is currently consulting with industry on safety and regulatory updates to support implementation of a deregulated market.

Integrating the principle of sustainability

• The ministry continues to actively consider how to support other modes (active transportation) and new technologies to support a more sustainable and efficient transportation network.
• The ministry participated in a partnership to advance work underway as part of a five-year U.S. Federal Highway Administration Transportation Pooled Fund Study on Wildlife Vehicle Collision Reduction and Habitat Connectivity along with several U.S. state departments of transportation.

Measuring performance

Municipal transit ridership in large urban centres

Municipal transit systems serving Ontario’s 15 largest urban centres carried 830.2 million passengers in 2019 (latest statistics available) on conventional and specialized services.

According to the Canadian Urban Transit Association (CUTA), transit ridership grew in 2019 in Canada to an all-time high of 2.19 billion passenger trips. The increase in trips equates to a growth in ridership of 38 million linked trips taken by passengers on Canada’s transit network – a 1.8 per cent jump from 2018.

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Across Ontario, overall municipal transit ridership increased by 1 per cent in 2019 compared to 2018. Municipal transit ridership in large urban centres in Ontario over this period increased by 1.3 per cent, after years of flat ridership.

The COVID‑19 pandemic has had a significant impact on municipal transit ridership in 2020, with significant declines in ridership and even temporary service suspensions in some cases. The full extent of the impact (how much ridership declined, in which municipalities, and for how long) is not yet known, as 2020 ridership data will not be available until later in 2021. However, overall 2020 ridership is expected to be dramatically lower than it was in 2019.

Related link: Municipal Transit Systems in Ontario

Metrolinx transit ridership

Metrolinx transit ridership in 2019-20 (latest statistics available) was 76.3 million, up from 76.2 million passengers in 2018-19. Ridership is forecasted to decrease to be approximately 6.3 million passengers in 2020-21. Ridership across the GO network has fallen by approximately 90 per cent due to COVID‑19 and Metrolinx has temporarily reduced services in line with the significant reduction in ridership, which may impact the accuracy of this forecast.

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* 2020-21 year-end estimate as of Q3.

Note: Historical figures for 2012-13 through 2014-15 show GO Transit ridership only. With the launch of UP Express service in June 2015, historical figures and targets from 2015-16 onwards have been adjusted to reflect the new Metrolinx transit ridership figures, which include both GO Transit and UP Express services.

Related link: 2019-20 Metrolinx Business Plan

Metrolinx – On-time performance

On-time performance is defined as within 5 minutes of scheduled arrival time for rail trips and within 15 minutes of scheduled arrival time for bus trips.

The on-time performance of Metrolinx has dropped from 97.8 percent of trips being on time (2012-13 baseline) to 94.9 percent in 2019-20. The ministry is targeting to improve its performance to 96 percent in 2021-22.

Note: This indicator is not a province-wide measure and only reflects Metrolinx’s transit services (GO Rail, GO Bus, and UP Express).

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Fatalities per 10,000 drivers

Ontario recorded a rate of 0.58 fatalities per 10,000 licensed drivers in 2018 and ranked first with the lowest motor vehicle collision fatality rate in Canada and North America (the most recent comparable data available). Fatalities have fallen for more than a decade due, in part, to public education campaigns, road safety improvement programs, and effective enforcement.

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Related link: Ontario Road Safety Annual Reports (ORSAR)