Results of the recent rapid transit survey show the McMaster community strongly supports a proposed light rail system for Hamilton. Respondents also indicated they prefer a campus terminal that is within reasonable walking distance of main buildings, provides connections to existing transit hubs and is respectful of the Campus Plan.

More than 1,500 students, faculty and staff completed the survey which was organized by the City of Hamilton and McMaster. They were asked to share their transit practices and preferences and provide opinions about Hamilton's proposed rapid transit initiative.

Survey respondents were asked about their preferred mode of rapid transportation. Nearly two-thirds chose light rail transit as their preferred choice.

The survey also found a light rail line could change commuting habits. More than 85 per cent of respondents who don't currently use public transit to get to McMaster said a light rail transit line would cause them to re-consider how they commute.

Community members were asked to rank the importance of a variety of factors the University should consider when planning the location of a rapid transit terminal on campus. Reasonable walking distance to main buildings, connection to other transit hubs and being respectful of the pedestrian priority area as outlined in the campus plan were ranked highest.

"We are thrilled with the tremendous survey response from the McMaster community and look forward to future consultation with stakeholders throughout all phases of the rapid transit planning process," says Jill Stephen, the City of Hamilton's acting director, Strategic Planning and Rapid Transit."

During the input phase, the University received important feedback from members of the campus research community about possible terminal locations. More information is being sought about the potential impacts of light rail transit on research labs and equipment.

"The survey results clearly show the community is eager to have rapid transit service campus," says Roger Trull vice-president University Advancement. "Once the City has finalized its plans and routes, the University's next step will be to determine an appropriate terminal location that is convenient and provides connections to other transit, while being respectful of both the campus plan and needs of our research community."

The City is working with Metrolinx, the provincial body responsible for expanding transit in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area. Hamilton's priority is a Light Rail Transit (LRT) system which includes a McMaster to Eastgate Square line along the present B-line corridor. The City is awaiting a final recommendation from Metrolinx for the project.