Ontario is taking the next step to build a high-speed rail line that will connect Windsor, London, Kitchener-Waterloo, and Toronto, which will improve travel options, reduce travel time and create jobs by getting people moving.
The start of an integrated environmental assessment (EA) marks the next phase of the project, which includes identifying the most appropriate route, examining state-of-the-art transportation technology options and an environmental evaluation.
The EA will be guided by consultations in early 2015 with municipal and business groups, as well as with First Nation and Métis communities.
High-speed rail service connecting Windsor, London, Kitchener-Waterloo, and Toronto is part of the government's long-term transit and infrastructure plan, Moving Ontario Forward. This plan will make nearly $29 billion available over the next 10 years for investments in priority infrastructure projects across the province, including public transit, roads, bridges and highways.
Building public transportation is part of the government's economic plan for Ontario. The four part plan is building Ontario up by investing in people's talents and skills, building new public infrastructure like roads and transit, creating a dynamic, supportive environment where business thrives, and building a secure savings plan so everyone can afford to retire.
QUOTE
“We are moving forward with an environmental assessment process for a high-speed rail line that would connect Windsor, London, Kitchener-Waterloo, and Toronto. The high-speed rail line would improve travel options, reduce travel times and support economic development across the province.”
— Steven Del Duca, Minister of Transportation
"I'm delighted our government is one step closer to bringing high-speed rail to Windsor, London, Kitchener-Waterloo, and Toronto. High-speed rail would be a great benefit to our community and would be a tremendous economic boost to southwestern Ontario."
— Deb Matthews, MPP for London North Centre
“This is fantastic news for London. High speed rail will benefit many vital economic sectors in London. We look forward to working with the Province on this initiative.”
— Matt Brown, Mayor of London
QUICK FACTS
With a planned stop at Toronto Pearson International Airport, the high-speed rail line will better connect communities across Ontario, and will help connect southwestern Ontario businesses with the global economy.
On Dec. 5, 2014, the Minister of Transportation met with the Mayor of London as well as key business leaders to discuss the latest plans. Discussions also took place with business partners in London’s technology industry, such as Big Blue Bubble, Big Viking Games, Inner Geek Inc., TD Canada Trust, Voices.com, and members of the Small Business Centre, the London Chamber of Commerce and the London Economic Development Corporation.
Since October 2003, Ontario has committed approximately $295 million for transit, highway infrastructure, municipal roads and bridges and other municipal capital projects in the City of London.
LEARN MORE
Patrick Searle, Minister's Office, 416-327-1815
Bob Nichols, Communications Branch, 416-327-1158 ontario.ca/transportation-news
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