Much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving! As we settle into the fall season, our community has much to be thankful for. At the time of writing, over 4.6 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been delivered in Toronto. Residents still seeking a vaccine should visit Ontario.ca/bookvaccine.

I would also like to congratulate our Member of Parliament, Gary Anandasangaree, on his re-election in September. Scarborough–Rouge Park is very fortunate to have a federal representative who is so engaged with the needs of our community. I look forward to continuing to work with MP Anandasangaree.

Automated Shuttle Update

Innovation is happening in West Rouge! The automated shuttle trial begins in the West Rouge community this fall. This temporary trial uses a low-speed automated vehicle that is mostly self-driving. A human attendant will always be on board to take over driving if needed. After completing on-road testing, passenger service is planned to begin in October. The service may extend until the end of February 2022, depending on how the vehicle performs in winter weather conditions. Information on shuttle performance and customer experience will be collected as part of the trial.

In preparation for the shuttle’s arrival, information sessions and a Meet the Shuttle event were held. Residents looking to learn more about the project, can email automatedvehicles@toronto.ca or visit toronto.ca. The West Rouge Automated Shuttle Trial is organized through a partnership between the City of Toronto, Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) and Metrolinx.

ShowLoveTO

In September, the city launched its ShowLoveTO campaign to inspire local tourism, foster community engagement, support local businesses and encourage economic recovery in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.

By now, you may have noticed the LoveTO heart outside of the Port Union Community Centre. Residents are encouraged to snap, tag and share a photo using #ShowLoveTO to join the city in building back better by using creativity to inspire hope. A schedule of ShowLoveTO events can be found at toronto.ca/showloveTO

And while you’re visiting the LoveTO heart, you may want to check out a book or two. The Port Union Library has reopened! Hours are available at torontopubliclibrary.ca/portunion/.

.We’re Here to Work for You

For local updates, please sign up for my weekly e-newsletter at www.jennifermckelvie.ca. You can also follow me on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter via my handle @McKelvieWard25. My office continues to serve our residents. Please email me at councillor_mckelvie@toronto.ca.