Metrolinx is recommending that a rail link between Pearson International Airport and the downtown core be electrified eventually, but not right away when it opens.
The provincial transit agency released the results of a study today, suggesting that the controversial Air Rail Link system be electrified seven to 10 years after it first opens with diesel locomotives in 2015.
The Lakeshore and Georgetown corridors would eventually be electrified as well, Metrolinx says.
The study proposes to switch from internal combustion locomotives to electric ones over several phases at a cost of $1.6 billion to $1.8 billion.
A Toronto-based grass roots group, however, says it will develop an emergency action plan to stop Metrolinx from moving forward with plans to buy diesel locomotives for the ARL.
Concerned about the effects on air quality, Stop Dirty Diesel Trains wants to prevent more diesel trains from running along the ARL and Georgetown rail corridors
The report on eventual electrification will be submitted to the Metrolinx board on Jan. 26.
