Residents living near Ottawa’s Via Rail station on Tremblay Road are expressing concerns following visits from Alto representatives. The crown corporation has been going door-to-door in the neighborhood, specifically along O and P avenues in Eastway Gardens, seeking permission to conduct field studies on private properties. This has raised apprehensions among some residents about the potential implications of the project for their community.
Tyson Cook, a resident whose home borders the railway tracks, voiced his worries about the project possibly leading to the loss of his house. He suggested investing in Via Rail instead of introducing an Alto train. Similarly, Curtis Barr opposes the project and stated that he would reject Alto’s request to access his property, emphasizing his commitment to hindering the project’s progress to protect the neighborhood and its families.
Alto clarified that their studies do not confirm any future route or station location. The company mentioned that the official announcement for Ottawa’s station location and a more detailed Ottawa-Montreal corridor route will be made later this fall, with the final route expected to be disclosed in 2027.
Councillor Marty Carr from Alta Vista expressed her surprise at not being informed about Alto’s interactions with residents. She had previously been informed about drone surveys but was not aware of the recent visits. Carr indicated her long-standing belief that the Via station would be chosen as Ottawa’s high-speed rail stop due to its proximity to available land, easy access to Highway 417, and potential issues associated with a downtown stop. She highlighted the uncertainty felt by residents regarding the project’s impact on their neighborhood and properties.
Residents are reportedly experiencing general anxiety about the lack of information and the possible effects on their homes, especially considering the federal legislation, Bill C-15, addressing land expropriation for high-speed rail projects. Carr also mentioned that Alto’s interest in the area might have stalled an affordable housing project at the corner of Tremblay Road and St Laurent Boulevard.
Deanna Derby, another resident in the area, questioned the financial feasibility of the high-speed rail project, expressing concerns about the burden it might pose on Canadian taxpayers. Alto’s consideration of Ottawa’s Via station as a potential location was previously mentioned by CEO Martin Imbleau, citing the station’s expandability and connection to the Tremblay O-Train station as key factors.
The community awaits further updates on the project’s development and its potential impact on their neighborhood and properties.
