The consultation findings have led to further assessment of a potential Kingston stop on the future high-speed rail corridor.
Alto has released its What We Heard Report, summarising feedback gathered during the first phase of public consultation for Canada’s proposed high-speed rail project between Toronto and Québec City.
The report reflects views collected from October 2025 to June 2026 through public engagement activities and consultations with Indigenous communities across the corridor. Feedback was received from residents, municipalities, landowners, agricultural producers, businesses, transport specialists and community organisations.
The proposed high-speed railway is intended to provide faster and more reliable passenger services while supporting economic development, improving connectivity and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Kingston option under further review
Following a review of the consultation findings, Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon has directed Alto to further assess a southern alignment between Peterborough and Ottawa that could include a station in Kingston, subject to technical and project requirements.
Under the proposal, Kingston would become an important regional transport hub connected to existing VIA Rail services. Alto estimates that high-speed rail could reduce journey times between Kingston and Toronto to approximately 90 minutes.
The report also highlighted concerns raised by agricultural producers, landowners and rural communities regarding property acquisition, access requirements and potential impacts on farmland and local operations.
Environmental organisations also called for measures to minimise ecological impacts, particularly in the Kingston area.
Steven MacKinnon said: “Canadians shared valuable perspectives through Alto’s consultation process, and we are acting on what we heard.”
He added: “I have asked Alto to further assess an alignment option that could include Kingston as a potential stop as we continue advancing this transformative project.”
Consultation to guide future project development
Alto said the consultation process will continue as technical studies and environmental assessments progress.
Martin Imbleau, President and Chief Executive Officer of Alto, said: “Consultation is an ongoing dialogue.”
He added: “Alto’s objective is to develop a project that delivers the greatest collective benefits, while minimising impacts on communities and the environment.”
The organisation expects to present a more detailed preferred alignment later this year, following additional technical and environmental analysis.
Once a preferred route is selected, the project will move into more detailed design work, regulatory review and impact assessment processes, with continued consultation involving Indigenous communities, municipalities and other stakeholders.
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