OTTAWA – The Canadian Urban Transit Association (CUTA) is urging all stakeholders to take immediate action to prevent a looming rail shutdown that could have severe consequences for Canada’s transit systems, supply chains, and economy.

A shutdown of the rail network would lead to significant delays in the transportation of goods, increased costs for businesses, and disruptions to public transit services that rely on rail infrastructure. This includes Metrolinx’s Milton line, affecting 7,500 daily passengers, and the Hamilton GO station on the Lakeshore line, impacting 600 passengers daily. TransLink’s West Coast Express in British Columbia, which serves over 3,000 passengers each day, would also be affected. In the Montreal area, Exo’s Candiac, Saint-Jerome, and Vaudreuil/Hudson lines would see disruptions affecting over 21,000 daily passengers, with potential to impact up to 38,000 starting in September. Overall, this stoppage could disrupt the commutes of 32,000 to 50,000 Canadians in the coming weeks and months if it remains unresolved.

These rail lines are essential for Canada’s commuters, and any disruption would cause widespread delays and force many Canadians to seek alternative transportation, straining local transit systems and increasing road congestion.

“We are at a pivotal moment where all parties must come together to find a resolution,” said Marco D’Angelo, President and CEO of CUTA. “A rail shutdown would not only disrupt the flow of goods but also have a profound impact on our public transit systems, which are the lifeblood of our cities. We urge the government, labor unions, and rail operators to prioritize the needs of Canadians and prevent a shutdown that would cause widespread harm.”

In preparation for a possible shutdown, transit agencies are exploring contingencies, such as increasing bus service, coordinating with municipal transit systems, and advising commuters to plan for delays and disruptions. However, these measures would only partially alleviate the effects of a rail shutdown, underscoring the importance of avoiding such an outcome altogether.

Many Canadian cities rely on integrated transportation systems that include rail to operate efficiently. A disruption to rail services would have cascading effects on transit systems, leading to potential service reductions and delays that could affect millions of commuters.

“Our transit systems are already under pressure,” D’Angelo added. “A rail shutdown would only add to the challenges, making it harder for Canadians to access the services they rely on every day. Now is the time for leadership and compromise to avert a crisis that would touch every corner of our country.”

CUTA remains committed to working with all stakeholders to support a sustainable and resilient transportation network that meets the needs of all Canadians. The association will continue to monitor the situation closely and advocate for the best interests of the public transit sector and the communities it serves.

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Media Contact:
Kelly Luke
Coordinator, Communications & Digital Media
Canadian Urban Transit Association
[email protected]
416-553-8572