Dispute threatens to derail commuter trains to Kitchener

A coalition of area mayors is trying to engineer a solution to an ongoing dispute between VIA Rail and the Goderich Exeter Railway. The effort, spearheaded by Kitchener mayor Carl Zehr, is aimed at keeping increased passenger rail service to the region on track. GO Transit hopes to establish daily train service between here and Toronto by 2011, eventually growing to up to 20 passenger trains per day. But if a solution can not be brokered those plans may be derailed.

At issue are the fees that must be paid for increased use of the track so that service can be improved. The Goderich Exeter Railway, also known as the North Main Line, is owned by Texas-based Rail America. That company has a lease agreement with CN Rail that extends until 2018 and Rail America stands to gain financially from the increased fees brought about by increased service. VIA Rail is also interested in expanding its passenger service along the line but has not been able to reach an agreement with Rail America. The Canada Transport Agency has been asked to arbitrate the issues.

Zehr says we need a cultural shift that makes rail a legitimate option for our future transportation needs. He cites Europe as a model for such a shift and admits that it's frustrating to be a municipal mayor stuck in this process. Zehr says the coalition he's a part of does not "hold a hammer" it can use to get its way but adds lobbying efforts will continue to the coalition's maximum ability. Zehr tells 570 News improved rail service would mean less stress on our roads and other infrastructure, not to mention less stress on us in some cases as we can save time and frustration commuting by mass transportation rather than dealing with gridlock on the highway.