'Transit Villages' Coming To Toronto's Suburbs

"York Region has recognized the economic, social and environmental benefits of the "transit village" — a new urban philosophy that is finding converts among city planners across North America.With a burgeoning population, explosive employment growth and cars that go nowhere in rush hour, York is embracing transit, and building four regional downtowns where people can live, work, shop, dine and play without getting into a car. The four centres will be linked to each other and to Toronto by Viva, a rapid bus system that begins next fall along Highway 7 and Yonge St.If there was a catalyst for the vision, it was the adoption in 2002 of the region's transportation master plan, which calls for higher densities to support a shift away from the car and on to transit. But it goes beyond the car-bus debate, integrating wider sidewalks, bike paths, and stores, restaurants and office buildings close to home."[Also see "related story