Dispute between VIA and GEXR stalls passenger rail improvements in Ontario

From the Stratford Gazette

An ongoing dispute between VIA Rail Canada and Goderich-Exeter Railway (GEXR) over track usage fees has stalled long-sought infrastructure improvements that could see increased passenger service through St. Marys and Stratford.

The issue centres around what is known as the North Main Line, a section of track that runs from London to Toronto. A portion of the track, from London to near Georgetown, is currently leased and operated by GEXR, which is owned by US-based RailAmerica. The improved rail lines would be able to accommodate higher volumes and faster speeds, as well as improved safety measures including a central tracking system.

According to media reports in Kitchener and Guelph, GEXR is looking to increase its track fee to compensate for what it says will be an increase in operating and maintenance costs. Calls to RailAmerica seeking comment were not returned as of press time.

According to VIA spokesperson Catherine Kaloutsky, millions of infrastructure dollars from the federal government have been earmarked for the improvements, which she says will improve travel times and increase the capacity for future growth on the North Main Line. VIA remains hopeful, she notes, that a speedy resolution will be made now that the dispute has gone to arbitration.

Kaloutsky says VIA has not determined how many more trains would be added to the line; however, an environmental assessment completed in July 2009 by GO Transit – which is also looking to expand service along the line from Kitchener to Toronto – shows three additional trains in each direction between London and Toronto.