Kingston council urges VIA Rail to expand eastern Ontario service

Council voted unanimously on a motion by Mayor Bryan Paterson at Thursday's meeting.

Kingston city council is calling on Via Rail to maintain and expand passenger rail service in eastern Ontario.

At Tuesday night’s meeting, council unanimously backed a motion asking the Crown corporation to strengthen regional connections and consider adding more routes, including a late-night train from Toronto to Kingston.

The appeal follows Via Rail’s recent announcement that it would reduce the number of trains stopping in Kingston — a plan the company later reversed after community concern.

Mayor Bryan Paterson’s motion highlights the need for more convenient travel options for residents, tourists and business travellers, particularly for evening events in Toronto that currently cannot be reached by train service returning the same night.

Several councillors voiced frustration over Via Rail’s handling of service levels in Kingston, saying the company underestimates local demand and the city’s role as a major hub for students and commuters.

Council members said expanded rail service could boost ridership, tourism and economic activity, and called for a stronger long-term vision for passenger rail across eastern Ontario.

The city plans to raise the issue with other municipalities through the Federation of Canadian Municipalities to build broader regional support.

Story by Grant Deme