Leaders in Rideau Lakes and across eastern Ontario are escalating their opposition to the proposed ALTO high-speed rail corridor, now calling for the project to be paused.
In a joint letter signed by the mayors and reeves of 12 municipalities, representing about 215,000 residents, officials are urging the federal government to suspend further development and launch broader consultations with rural communities.
The group says the estimated $90-billion project lacks a clear business case, including ridership data, and raises concerns about land expropriation, falling property values, and stalled development. Leaders also warn of environmental risks to areas like the Rideau Canal and the Frontenac Arch Biosphere.
The letter calls on Prime Minister Mark Carney to reconsider the route and engage directly with rural municipalities. Copies were also sent to federal Transport Minister Steve MacKinnon and local MPs.
