Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown recently met with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in Ottawa to address critical issues affecting the Peel Region, including rampant auto thefts and the expansion of the Light Rail Transit (LRT) system. The meeting, which took place on April 29 at the Prime Minister’s office, was described by Brown as a “fruitful discussion” focused on finding tangible solutions to these pressing challenges.
Key Issues Discussed
During the meeting, Mayor Brown emphasized the need for federal support to combat the escalating auto theft problem in Brampton and the surrounding areas. He proposed the installation of four container scanners at the Port of Montreal and an additional scanner at the Intermodal Hubs in Brampton and Vaughan. Brown also advocated for granting local police jurisdiction at these critical locations to enhance their ability to dismantle auto theft rings, which have significantly distressed the Greater Toronto Area.The Peel Regional Police Service reported a dramatic increase in auto thefts, with 8,322 incidents in Brampton and Mississauga in 2023, more than doubling the number reported in 2021. This surge in crime has also led to a rise in home invasions as thieves become more audacious in their attempts to steal vehicle keys.
LRT Expansion Plans
Additionally, Mayor Brown and the Brampton city council have been lobbying for the extension of the Hazel McCallion LRT line through downtown Brampton. Ontario Premier Doug Ford recently announced plans to support this extension, along with a loop around Square One Shopping Centre in Mississauga. However, this project will likely require additional funding from the federal government.Mayor Brown championed federal involvement in Phase 2 of the tunnelled LRT extension, which aims to connect the under-construction LRT with the Brampton Innovation District GO Station in Downtown Brampton. This project is considered pivotal for enhancing the functionality, resiliency, efficiency, and convenience of Brampton’s higher-order transit network.
Federal Government’s Response
While the Office of the Prime Minister declined further comment, Prime Minister Trudeau did acknowledge the ongoing collaboration with Mayor Brown during a media scrum. Trudeau highlighted the joint efforts in investing in Brampton, particularly in supporting the housing accelerator fund agreement and addressing the housing crisis in the GTA. He also mentioned the federal government’s commitment to improving infrastructure, transit, and housing affordability.The meeting underscores the continued partnership between the Government of Canada and the City of Brampton, focusing on addressing both local and broader issues that impact the community.
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