As Ontario approaches its provincial election, party leaders have laid out their platforms, touching on housing, infrastructure, and economic growth. Yet, one glaringly obvious solution to Ontario’s affordability, congestion, and economic challenges remains overlooked: a true high-speed rail network.
Ontario Liberal leader Bonnie Crombie briefly mentioned support for the federal government’s already-promised high-speed rail line, but this is far from the visionary commitment the province needs. Meanwhile, the other major party leaders have failed to address high-speed rail altogether, despite its game-changing potential.
A true high-speed rail network—not just a single line—could transform Ontario. Imagine being able to travel from Windsor to Toronto in just over two hours, or from North Bay or Sudbury to Toronto in a little more than an hour. Such a network would connect key regions, unlock new housing opportunities, and allow businesses to expand beyond the Greater Toronto Area, creating a more balanced and prosperous economy.
Instead, political leaders are entertaining outdated, car-centric mega-projects. Take, for example, Doug Ford’s proposed $100 billion highway tunnel under the 401, which would only stretch about 50 km from Mississauga to Scarborough. That staggering price tag could fund an entire high-speed rail network spanning the province. The difference? While a highway tunnel will only serve traffic within the GTA, high-speed rail would connect the entire province, making Ontario the most accessible and economically dynamic region in North America.
The economic and environmental benefits of high-speed rail are undeniable. It would reduce congestion, cut emissions, and open up more affordable housing markets outside of Toronto. Yet, Ontario’s leaders remain silent. Is it a lack of vision? Fear of political backlash? Or simply an outdated mindset that prioritizes highways over modern, efficient transit solutions?
Ontario stands at a crossroads. The next government has a chance to be bold—to embrace a future where the entire province is connected by fast, reliable rail service. But for that to happen, voters need to demand more than short-sighted infrastructure projects. Ontario doesn’t just need a high-speed rail line—it needs a network. Anything less is a missed opportunity.
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