Item - 2024.EC15.2

The Economic and Community Development Committee:

1. Received the presentation by VIA High Frequency Rail (HFR) for information.

Vinay Sharda, Vice President, Local Government and Community Partnerships of VIA High Frequency Rail, gave a presentation to the Economic and Community Development Committee.

In December 2022, the Federal Government established the VIA Rail Subsidiary—VIA High Frequency Rail to support High Frequency Rail. The High Frequency Rail (HFR) project is a proposed investment to create a new train network that will run on mostly dedicated tracks at higher frequencies, higher speeds and with greater reliability between Toronto and Québec City.

The High Frequency Rail project presents a unique economic development opportunity by:

• Achieving greater connectivity for people living in and around major cities and communities between Toronto and Québec City, and to major airports and universities/ colleges in the region.

• Supporting economic growth by creating new employment opportunities in infrastructure, in new centres of economic activity and bringing people closer to markets and businesses.

• Promoting a competitive marketplace that gives Canadians more flexibility and affordable options for intercity travel.

• Increasing equitable access to passenger services for all people regardless of physical ability or socio-economic background.

Vinay Sharda, Vice President, Local Government and Community Partnerships of VIA High Frequency Rail, will provide a presentation on the economic development benefits and opportunities of High Frequency Rail.