Alto CEO Martin Imbleau has indicated that Kingston, Ontario, is likely to have a stop on the upcoming high-speed rail line connecting Toronto and Quebec City. Imbleau mentioned that while express trains won’t stop in Kingston every time, the city’s large population and the strong demand from the public make it a viable option for a stop along the route.
Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon had previously expressed interest in considering Kingston as a potential stop on Canada’s inaugural high-speed rail route. MacKinnon highlighted Kingston’s significance as the fourth-busiest Via Rail station in the country, emphasizing the potential benefit for students at Queen’s University.
Prime Minister Mark Carney aims to commence construction on the line within four years. The proposed Toronto-Quebec City line, announced last year, includes planned stops in Trois-Rivières, Laval, Montreal, Ottawa, and Peterborough. Alto intends to unveil the specific route between Montreal and Ottawa for public input this autumn, with potential adjustments around Montreal’s Mirabel suburb based on feedback from local farmers.
Although there have been concerns expressed by some residents along the proposed route regarding the impact of the high-speed rail project on their communities, the mayors of Kingston and the Township of South Frontenac have voiced support for the project, particularly advocating for a stop in Kingston.
The envisioned 1,000-kilometre rail line will utilize all-electric trains capable of speeds up to 300 km/h and is estimated to cost between $60 billion and $90 billion. Mayor Paterson of Kingston is optimistic about the progress toward securing a stop in Kingston and remains committed to advocating for the city’s inclusion in the high-speed rail network.
Meanwhile, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has called for the cancellation of the project, suggesting that the funds could be better utilized for tax cuts. In contrast, the leader of the Parti Québécois has indicated intentions to withdraw the province from the Alto project if elected, citing a preference for investing in local transportation initiatives.
Overall, the inclusion of Kingston as a stop on the high-speed rail route is gaining momentum, with stakeholders expressing a mix of support and opposition as the project moves forward.
