Smiths Falls council is continuing to advocate for a stop in the proposed Alto high-speed rail project, as the mayor and council consider concerns and opposition from neighbouring councils and residents.
Mayor Shawn Pankow says the town has supported a station since discussions began nearly a decade ago, when the project was still framed as high-frequency rail.
Pankow says the town believes a stop could be a major economic driver, giving residents fast access to major cities while drawing visitors to the region.
But he acknowledges the chances of securing a station now appear slim unless a compelling business case can be made.
Council plans to revisit its position before the consultation period closes, likely in April, with a consultant currently developing a business plan to support the request.
Pankow also questioned a newly proposed southern route, saying earlier discussions placed the line along or near the existing CP Rail corridor through or north of Smiths Falls.
The Mayor believes clearer communication could ease some fears about property impacts, noting the actual rail footprint would be far narrower than the wide corridor shown on planning maps.
But, Pankow also concedes in order for it to work for the region, it has to make sense.
Pankow argues the project must include at least one accessible regional station to deliver those benefits beyond Ottawa and Peterborough.
Council is expected to decide its next steps after reviewing the consultant’s findings.