Mayor happy to see Premier back Kingston's case for high-speed rail along the 401 corridor

Premier Doug Ford says it makes the most sense, doesn't want to see property expropriated to build the line.

You can add the Premier of Ontario's name to the list of those who want the proposed high-speed train along the 401 corridor with "maybe" a stop in Kingston.

Doug Ford was in Brockville this week for the announcement of the expansion of the St. Lawrence Valley Correctional and Treatment Centre and the new Brockville Correctional Complex.

Ford was asked about the controversial project that would see trains operate between Toronto and Quebec City at speeds of up to 300 km/h.

The Premier said a news conference that having the line along the 401 corridor makes the most sense adding he doesn't want the line cutting through farms and having private property expropriated.

The words were music to the ears of Kingston Mayor Bryan Paterson who along with South Frontenac Mayor Ron Vandewal and advocacy group Save South Frontenac are trying to persuade the federal government to build the line along the highway.

Paterson says Ford's backing of their plan adds more weight to their case.

Paterson believes there is momentum being gained in their quest to get the Alto train to stop in Kingston.

Alto is still holding public consultations and have announced that it is being extended to April 24 with at least two more virtual sessions on March 23 and 26.

Story by Ken Hashizume