Consultation was an integral component of the Environmental Assessment (EA) process. Consultation provided opportunities for two-way communication with interested stakeholders. Consultation activities also enabled the identification of potentially significant environmental issues early in the decision making process and ensure that they are given appropriate consideration. The purpose of the consultation program was to provide input to assist MTO in making decisions throughout this EA process. Consultation will continue in Detail Design.

The public has a major role and responsibility in determining the success of a public consultation program. By allowing the public/interested parties to participate in the consultation process, MTO is able to resolve concerns and address comments/issues received during the consultation process; in turn encouraging proactive communication.

Consultation occurred throughout the EA study. Public Information Centres (PICs) were the main forum for public input during the EA and were held at key study stages. The PICs were arranged in an open house format to allow the public to see results, exchange information, and ask one-on-one questions of the consultants. Three rounds of PICs were held throughout the EA. Information presented during the PICs is as follows:

• PIC #1: Held on April 25, 2007 - click here for PIC #1 displays
       - Purpose and rationale for the undertaking;
       - Alternatives to the Undertaking;
       - Definition of the Study Area; and
       - Generation of Alternative Methods (route alternatives).

• PIC #2: Held on May 13, 2008 and May 15, 2008 – click here for PIC #2 displays
       - Assessment/Evaluation of Alternative Methods (route alternatives); and,
       - Selection of the Preferred Alternative.

• PIC #3: Held on April 22, 2009 and April 23, 2009 - click here for PIC #3 displays.
       - Refinement to the preferred alternative;
       - Preliminary Design; and,
       - Detailed Impact Assessment and Mitigation Measures.

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Review of EA Report

• Notice of Submission - English (146KB PDF)
• Notice of Submission - French (175KB PDF)

The EA Report was available for public review from January 29, 2010 to March 19, 2010. The Minister of the Environment has approved the project subject to some conditions of approval. The Minister’s decision, and details regarding the Ministry of the Environment review of the EA, can be accessed online at: http://www.ene.gov.on.ca/en/eaab/Documents/hwy427_NoA.pdf

Since the EA has been approved by the Minister of the Environment, the project may proceed to Detail Design and construction. Details regarding the construction schedule will be provided during Detail Design. Currently this project is not listed as part of the Southern Highways Program which is MTO's five-year investment plan in highway construction for Southern Ontario. The Southern Highway Program for 2010-2014 can be viewed online at: http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/pubs/highway-construction/southern-highway-2010/index.shtml. It is noteworthy that the 427 Study Corridor is listed as a “Planning for the Future” project http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/pubs/highway-construction/southern-highway-2010/projects-beyond-2014.shtml.