Alto CEO Martin Imbleau recently mentioned that Kingston, Ontario, is likely to have a stop on the upcoming high-speed rail line connecting Toronto and Quebec City due to strong public demand. Imbleau highlighted that while most Alto trains would bypass Kingston, Laval, and Trois-Rivières without stopping for quicker service between major cities, the inclusion of Kingston in the route is being seriously considered by Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon.
MacKinnon emphasized that Kingston, as the fourth-busiest Via Rail station in Canada, could benefit significantly from an Alto stop, especially for Queen’s University students. Imbleau acknowledged the persuasive arguments supporting a Kingston stop based on received feedback, emphasizing the need for strategic and efficient stops along the route.
Prime Minister Mark Carney aims to commence construction of the high-speed rail line within the next four years. The proposed Toronto-Quebec City route, announced last year, includes stops at Trois-Rivières, Laval, Montreal, Ottawa, and Peterborough. Alto intends to unveil the specific Montreal-Ottawa route for public input soon, with potential adjustments around Montreal’s Mirabel suburb based on local farmers’ input.
Regarding the possibility of an additional Alto stop in Smiths Falls, south of Ottawa, Imbleau suggested that Via Rail could cater to smaller communities, emphasizing the importance of practicality and efficiency in selecting stops. While some residents along the proposed route have expressed concerns about the impact of the high-speed rail, the mayors of Kingston and South Frontenac have expressed support for the project, particularly advocating for a Kingston stop.
Alto’s proposed 1,000-kilometre electric train line, capable of speeds up to 300 km/h, is estimated to cost between $60 billion and $90 billion. Mayor Paterson expressed optimism about the progress towards a Kingston stop, urging continued development of the proposal. Meanwhile, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has called for the project’s cancellation, suggesting redirecting funds towards tax cuts instead, while the leader of the Parti Québécois has indicated plans to withdraw Quebec from the Alto project if elected.