Via Rail station in Belleville. Quinte News File Photo.
The County is jumping on board to endorse a resolution from the Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus (EOWC) that calls on the federal and Ontario governments to financially support VIA Rail’s High-Frequency Train proposal.
Via has a $5.25-billion proposal to upgrade its service though its busiest corridor between Windsor and Québec City with stops in Tweed, Sharbot Lake and Smith Falls recently announced. The project is touted as having a direct effect on the viability of Via Rail through attracting more customers while stimulating economic growth by operating trains on a more frequent basis.
On Thursday, the committee of the whole carried a motion backing EOWC’s resolution as the project aims to improve the quality, frequency and reliability of passenger rail services.
EWOC chair Mayor Robert Quaiff said the plan is great for Eastern Ontario commuters as a whole including County residents who commute to Belleville for the train service.
As part of the resolution, EOWC stated the project allows more options for connections with other modes of transportation such as light rail and local railways and would help continue in the fight against greenhouse gas emissions.
The motion will come to council for final consideration.
