Consultation is an integral component of the Environmental Assessment (EA) process. Consultation provides opportunities for two-way communication with interested stakeholders. Consultation activities also enable 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 is to provide input to assist MTO in making decisions throughout the EA process.

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 will be able to resolve concerns and address comments/issues received during the consultation process; in turn encouraging proactive communication.

Consultation will occur throughout the study. Public Information Centres (PICs) will be the main forum for public input and will be held at key study stages. The PICs will be 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 will be held throughout the study. Information to be presented is as follows:

• PIC #1 (Held on April 25, 2007):
       - 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:
       - Preliminary Design; and,
       - Detailed Impact Assessment and Mitigation Measures.