The Cataraqui Trail - Photo by Emily Chatwood / myFM News
Cataraqui Conservation is calling on the federal government and Alto to study a southern route for the proposed high-speed rail line near Highway 401. The conservation authority wants a station stop in Kingston while protecting local waterways and conservation lands.
The board approved the motion at its monthly meeting last week, following a similar request from Kingston city council in early February. Officials say the proposed routes could affect the Cataraqui Trail, Gould Lake Conservation Area, and other protected areas.
Alto is currently collecting public input on two potential rail corridors. Cataraqui Conservation and Loyalist Township council are encouraging the company to consider the 401 corridor option to reduce environmental impacts while providing rail access to eastern Ontario.
Lakeshide District Councillor Wendy Stephen said balancing a Kingston stop with watershed protection is crucial. The Nature Conservancy of Canada declined to comment, while the Frontenac Arch Biosphere Network is monitoring the project and encouraging public feedback.
