Greater Napanee council rejects high-speed rail plan

Council was unanimous in opposition but split as to whether to support alternate measures.

Greater Napanee Town Council has taken a firm stance against a proposed high-speed rail project, voting to oppose both suggested routes through the region.

At its April 28 meeting, council agreed the project, as currently planned, would bring little benefit to eastern Ontario while causing significant disruption. The proposed routes include a northern line along the Highway 7 corridor and a southern option that could pass through rural communities.

Concerns were raised about the lack of a local stop, noting the rail line would only serve Ottawa and Peterborough in eastern Ontario. They also pointed to potential farmland loss, environmental impacts, and strain on local infrastructure.

Public feedback echoed those concerns, with councillors reporting they had not heard support from residents. Dozens of written submissions urged council to reject the project entirely rather than choose between routes.

A staff report presented earlier in April suggested the project is likely to move forward regardless of municipal opposition, as the final decision rests with the federal government. Officials advised directing concerns to federal leaders rather than the project’s consultation body.

While united in opposition, council members were split on strategy. Some supported a full rejection, while others argued for continued engagement and promoting alternatives, such as improvements to existing rail service.

Council ultimately passed two resolutions: one opposing both routes, and another supporting national infrastructure projects while calling for a revised approach that protects farmland and follows existing transportation corridors.

Story by KingstonDaily.ca staff