Plans are underway for new high-speed rail lines in Ontario, and those lines could run through Hastings County.
During Thursday’s Hastings County Council meeting, Councillors heard a presentation from ALTO, the company responsible for building and operating the proposed high-speed rail network in the region.
The project aims to connect Toronto and Quebec City, with stops in several major cities along the route. Trains would travel at speeds of up to 300 km/h, requiring the construction of new, mostly straight rail lines, since existing tracks cannot accommodate that speed. To prevent interruptions, the system would also include overpasses and underpasses where tracks intersect with other infrastructure.
Once operational, the high-speed rail line is projected to bring significant economic benefits to Ontario. Increased productivity, higher workforce participation, and tourism growth are expected to contribute more than $24 billion to Canada’s gross domestic product.
The project is currently in the development phase, which includes securing land for the routes, consulting with municipalities and First Nations, and designing the electrified high-speed track layout.
Council received ALTO’s deputation for information but did not take any action at this time.
(HAILEY MACDONALD)
