The day after the funding was announced, some voices have expressed their concern about the tramway. This is the case of the citizens’ association Millar-Hadley, which would like to see the route moved.
This association is for the tramway, but is against the route currently studied because the tramway would pass behind the UQO, therefore on the boulevard de Lucerne and in the Parc des Portageurs. The association argues that the tramway is built for the environment, but that the environment must be destroyed to build it.
The ideal option would be Alexandre-Taché and Allumetières boulevards, according to this organization.
We really expect there to be population growth and all along the Boulevard des Allumetières. […] So, for us, logically we should really have a route right-of-way which would be on Boulevard des Allumetières. […] Also, by doing this, we are not cutting down a tree.
-Michel Lefebvre, Millar-Hadley neighborhood association
Overall, the politicians present at the funding announcement for the studies on Thursday repeatedly stated that it was good news overall. Hull MNA Suzanne Tremblay mentioned repeatedly that she was really happy with the announcement. There was also the mayor of Gatineau, who wanted to be called the tramway warrior during the election campaign, who had nothing but good things to say about the project.
However, nothing is decided yet because we do not yet have the funding for the portion of the tramway in Ontario. There are still 2 kilometres out of approximately 24 that are not covered by the announced funding. This is the portion between Hull and downtown Ottawa, which is crucial for the project. However, the federal government suggests that it should assume the cost 100%.
The Government of Canada […] sees itself as the only possible partner that can finance the Ontario section and the crossing. And so, we accept this responsibility. It took time. It’s complicated.
-Steven Mackinnon, Liberal MP for Gatineau
