Ontario rethinking support for Alto high-speed rail over Billy Bishop expansion decision
The Ontario government is reconsidering its support for the Alto high-speed rail project following the federal government's decision to block the expansion of Billy Bishop Airport. Provincial officials expressed disappointment, while Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow is simultaneously pushing for the province to return control of waterfront lands to the city.
Why it matters
This conflict highlights growing tensions between provincial and federal governments regarding infrastructure development and land jurisdiction in Canada's largest city.
The Doug Ford government is now rethinking its support for a high-speed rail project after the federal government ruled out expanding Billy Bishop Airport, a source has told CTV News.
The multi-billion-dollar Alto project would connect Quebec City to Toronto and promises to cut travel times between those cities in half.
The Toronto Star first reported the news.
Earlier this year, Ford and Prime Minister Carney signed the “Canada-Ontario Partnership to Build” agreement, which includes both governments committing to support the planning and advancement of Alto.
During a news conference in London, Ont., on Tuesday afternoon, Ontario Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria vowed to continue pushing for the expansion of the airport despite the federal government’s decision.
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