Toronto Celebrates After Federal Government Rejects Jet Expansion at Billy Bishop Airport

The federal government got 87,000 responses to a public consultation, with 87% of people against changes.

Hundreds of Toronto residents are celebrating after the federal government said no to a proposed expansion to allow jets at Billy Bishop Airport.

A planned rally to save the waterfront turned into a celebration of community power. The event started at Harbour Square Park and went along Queens Quay to HTO Park.

NoJetsTO chair Norm Di Pasquale said it's a great day.

Di Pasquale said people on the waterfront are happy and giving high fives because they know what this fight was about: saving the waterfront.

Federal Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon said the government is focusing on safety upgrades at Billy Bishop Airport, not on building it for jets.

The decision was based on public consultations where 87% of respondents were against changes for jets. However, the government left the door open for a potential change in the future.

Over 6,000 lawn signs were distributed, and thousands of residents sent letters to their MPs. Di Pasquale is proud of everyone who helped secure the victory.

People are concerned about this issue, and in the end, they were heard. The community just wanted to make sure their voice was loud and clear.

The federal government won't support Ontario's plans to expand Billy Bishop Airport.

The airport expansion could hurt Toronto's harbour water and undo billions in infrastructure upgrades.

Premier Doug Ford's proposal to extend the airport's runway drew criticism from environmental and community advocates over noise, traffic, and pollution concerns.

Ontario Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria said the provincial government still has plans for the airport and looks forward to working on the expansion.

The plan aims to protect public spaces, address noise and environmental impacts, and deliver benefits for local communities.

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow wants Little Norway Park back for the children who play there.

Chow said this is Toronto's waterfront and island, and the path forward is to give the land back.

Chow added that democracy matters, and when people speak with one voice, it matters. This is a win for the people.

MPP Chris Glover said it would be unfair to subject people to increased pollution, noise, and tourism.

Glover said the government would be foolish to put the expansion back on the table, and the community must remain vigilant.

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