Minister Indicates Timeline For Eastern Ontario Alto Route Reveal

Federal Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon sent a letter to North Frontenac on September 2nd, clarifying the timelines for the determination of a refined corridor for Alto through Eastern Ontario.

The letter was sent to the township in response to an earlier letter from North Frontenac to the Minister, expressing the township’s opposition to the Alto corridor crossing the township. The letter did not address that opposition, only noting that the Minister has received feedback from North Frontenac and other municipalities along the proposed corridor.

“In view of the comments and feedback already received, I would highlight that Alto will submit a refined corridor and proposed station locations plan for my approval in 2026. The development of a final rail alignment plan will proceed through three stages prior to a final investment decision, expected in 2029. This approach incorporates continuous and robust stakeholder consultations integrated into the development process. Of note, the alignment will still be subject to refinements as design work continues and consultations progress,” the letter said.

North Frontenac Mayor Gerry Lichty pointed out that although the refined corridor location plan will be submitted to the Minister in 2026, the letter doesn’t say if it will be released to the public. It may just go to the Minister.”

MacKinnon’s letter goes on to say that the government recognises the impact that “large linear infrastructure projects” can have on agricultural lands and farming operations and is working with agriculture associations in Quebec and Ontario to minimise those impacts.

The letter also talks about how Alto plans to acquire the property it requires to build out the rail line, again with a focus on agriculture and farming.

“Alto has developed a land acquisition strategy to guide how lands required for the High-Speed Rail network will be identified, accessed, and acquired. Alto is committed to working constructively with farmers in Québec and Ontario so that the project reflects agricultural realities and delivers regional benefits.”

The letter was received by North Frontenac Council at their meeting on September 8.

Mayor Lichty said, “apparently Alto has agreed not to put out any media releases until the refined corridor plans are released.”

In an interview with CBC Ottawa in August, MacKinnon said that Alto is currently actively exploring a route that will include a station in Kingston, and a decision will be made about that before the end of 2026. If that happens, North Frontenac would not be impacted by the Alto corridor, which would likely run through rural Kingston, south of Frontenac County entirely.

Nonetheless, Lichty reported to Council over the summer that North Frontenac has been approached by Alto to sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) so that the township can be briefed on Alto’s detailed plans, if they impact the township.

Lichty said he indicated to Alto that North Frontenac will not sign an NDA at this time.