Transport Canada seeks adviser for high-frequency rail routes

Transport Canada this week announced the next phase of the High Frequency Rail project, which will explore options to increase the frequency of passenger-rail service, improve on-time performance and shorten travel times in southwestern Ontario.

The Canadian government is seeking an external adviser for the project to analyze passenger demand and route options along the Quebec City-Windsor Corridor that would best meet the needs of the area, Transport Canada officials said in a press release. The adviser would submit a final report to the government by the end of 2023.

"Our government remains committed to delivering on high-frequency rail, stretching from Quebec City to Toronto," said Transport Minister Omar Alghabra. "With the engagement of a new external advisor, we are ready to develop options that will enhance passenger rail for communities across southwestern Ontario."

The government has invested CA$990 million to replace the VIA Rail Canada Inc. fleet, and CA$42.8 million to upgrade VIA Rail stations in Brantford, Chatham, Sarnia and London. The first new passenger cars are expected to enter service by year's end.

In early 2023, Alghabra will host a stakeholder roundtable on passenger-rail service, including southwestern Ontario's Indigenous groups.