Public input begins on the future of London's transportation network

The first pubic meeting for the final phase of the city’s Mobility Master Plan at the South London Community Centre on Jan. 8, 2024. (Bryan Bicknell/CTV News London)

Londoners are getting their say in how we’re all going to get around the city over the next 25 years.

Dozens came out to the South London Community Centre Tuesday evening for the first of four public input meetings for the third and final phase of the city’s Mobility Master plan, or the future of the city’s transportation network.

“It’s going to be London’s first integrated mobility master plan looking out to 2050,” explained Doug MacRae, London’s director of Transportation and Mobility. “We’re in a period of unprecedented growth. We have a climate emergency action plan that we need to deliver on. And really, we’re here tonight to listen to Londoners.”

In the public meetings, residents get the chance to review road, transit, cycling, and sidewalk infrastructure recommendations. Those attending can review maps and talk with engineers, as well as accessibility and transportation specialists.

Eighteen-year-old Ian Skinner, an avid cyclist, took in the Tuesday meeting. He said he wants to send the message to city planners that he believes there are too many gaps in London’s cycling network.

“Like, you’ll have a segment here, segment there, segment there. But then you’ve got these massive gaps where there’s no bike lane. So you’re, you know, in between the cars. It’s not a really nice situation. I wish we’d have a continual thing. Like you wouldn’t want to be in your car, and then suddenly, ‘Oh it turns into a dirt road,’ back to road, back to dirt road,” he lamented.

The city said it’s seeking feedback from Londoners to identify priority projects and inform timelines. Final recommendations will be presented to London city council in the spring.

Public meeting dates are as follows:

• Wednesday, January 8: South London Community Centre, drop in from 6-8 p.m., serviced by Bus Routes: 4, 93, 10, 13, 90, 95
• Thursday, January 9: East Lions Community Centre, drop in from 6-8 p.m., serviced by Bus Route: 7
• Wednesday, January 15: Northbrae Public School, drop in from 6:30-8:30 p.m., serviced by Bus Routes 1, 16, 27
• Thursday, January 16: Cherryhill Village Mall, drop in from 6-8 p.m., serviced by Bus Routes: 9, 17, 20, 33