Metrolinx acquires key commuter-rail segment of CN’s Kingston Subdivision
Written by jrood
Metrolinx has purchased a section of Canadian National's Kingston Subdivision rail line, used primarily for commuter and passenger rail operations in eastern Toronto, for C$299 million. The rail line is composed of the two- and three-track rail corridor east of Union Station in downtown Toronto to a junction near Whites Road in Pickering, Ont., where the line connects with GO Transit's separate rail right-of-way. Metrolinx President and Chief Executive Officer Bruce McCuaig said, "With today's announcement, Metrolinx gains full ownership of an important segment of GO Transit's Lakeshore East commuter rail corridor from Union Station to Oshawa, Ont., and a direct connection to GO's Stouffville corridor in eastern Toronto. "Owning this rail corridor section better positions GO to improve service, better control operations and plan future service growth." Metrolinx now owns 61 per cent of the rail corridors on which GO Transit operates. CN President and Chief Executive Officer Claude Mongeau said, "We are pleased to have concluded this sales agreement to transfer a critical link in the commuter rail network to Metrolinx, while protecting CN's operating rights over this line to ensure continued service to its freight customers. CN has a strong partnership with Metrolinx and we will continue to support commuter rail as a sustainable mode of transport in the Greater Toronto Area."
