A Visual Guide to the Assessment Processes for the Georgina Island Fixed Link Project
We've heard your questions and understand the importance of clarity regarding the assessment processes for the Georgina Island Fixed Link Project. To better explain these complex procedures, WSP has created graphics outlining each step in federal and other jurisdictional processes.
Federal Impact Assessment (IA) Process Explained
The first infographic maps out the Federal IA process. Currently, we are on day 57/180 in the Planning stage. This stage is important as it determines whether a federal IA is necessary. If it's deemed unnecessary, we can pass the middle phases and move towards the Decision-Making and Post-Decision stages, where various federal permits and authorizations will be considered.
Why a Federal IA? The Fixed Link needs to undergo a federal IA because it is considered a Designated Project under the Impact Assessment Act’s Physical Activity Regulations, given its length exceeding 400 meters in a navigable waterway.
Provincial, Municipal, and Other Jurisdictional Processes
The second graphic addresses the Provincial Individual Environmental Assessment (EA), which has been confirmed by the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP), as not required for this project. It lists potential provincial permits and authorizations that might be needed, ranging from water taking to endangered species permits.
For the Municipal Class EA, it has been clarified that creating a municipal road does not trigger a Municipal Class EA. However, any future municipal permitting requirements will be addressed in collaboration with the Town of Georgina.
Lastly, it has been confirmed that the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA) does not have jurisdiction over the project, so a Voluntary Project Review (VPR) is not needed. Nonetheless, potential permits concerning alterations to shorelines and watercourses under the Ontario Regulation will still be explored.
By navigating these various stages and securing the necessary approvals, we aim to move forward with the project responsibly, ensuring all environmental, social, and economic impacts are thoughtfully considered.
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