Canada extends Ontario passenger rail funding for three years

The Canadian government has decided to provide CA$5.3 million (US$4.2 million) over three years for the continued operation of the passenger rail service between Sault Ste. Marie and Hearst, ON.

The city of Sault Ste. Marie will receive federal support for three years for the continued operation of the passenger rail service to establish a new regime of passenger rail service in the area. This would allow Railmark, the proposed operator, to demonstrate its ability to deliver on its business plan. A review will be carried out at the three-year mark to determine if additional funding is warranted.

“The Harper government is pleased to provide funding over the next three years to maintain operation of the passenger rail service between Sault Ste. Marie and Hearst,” stated Bryan Hayes, member of parliament. “We thank the Algoma Central Railway Passenger Service Stakeholder Working Group for their extensive study, as this funding will give the city time to put in place a long-term solution for passenger rail service in the area.”

Since 1977, the Canadian government has provided financial support to ensure the continued operation of the passenger rail service between Sault Ste. Marie and Hearst under the Regional and Remote Passenger Rail Services Class Contribution Program. In 2013, the program was renewed as the Remote Passenger Rail Program, with a focus on remote rail services that provide access to established, year-round communities with few or no other transportation options.