Politicians in Sydney, Nova Scotia, discuss revitalizing the long-dormant Cape Breton rail line, citing potential economic and logistical benefits.
Efforts to Revitalize Cape Breton Rail Line Under Discussion
Some politicians in Nova Scotia believe the rail line across Cape Breton Island still has potential. They say discussions are ongoing about revitalizing the tracks, but economic feasibility remains a concern.
Trains have not run between the Strait of Canso and Sydney, N.S., for a decade. During this time, the tracks have deteriorated and become overgrown.
A study last year suggested that part of the line could be used for light rail transit. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith recently mentioned to The News Forum that there is talk about moving oil by rail to Sydney for eastern refineries.
Cape Breton Regional Municipality Mayor Cecil Clarke stated that this could strengthen the case for rehabilitating the tracks. He told CBC’s Information Morning Cape Breton, “Sydney’s on the national radar now, at least from an attention point of view. It’s not there by coincidence. We are talking rail again. This is something that has not been abandoned, but actually being looked at as a result of many working efforts.”
Mike Kelloway, the Liberal MP for Sydney-Glace Bay, noted that the port of Sydney is a candidate for a new polar icebreaker. If this occurs, rail access will be crucial. He mentioned this during an interview on Information Morning Cape Breton.
The light rail proposal could cost at least $140 million to implement in urban CBRM. Estimates for fixing the entire line across the island reach up to $500 million.
Kelloway, who serves as parliamentary secretary for transport, has been discussing the rehabilitation of the Cape Breton rail line with various government officials. He emphasized that businesses must also utilize the rail line.
“I believe in this case, government has a role to invest, but government should be the guide on the side,” Kelloway said. He added, “I think private sector is the sage on the stage and so we need them to step up and I’m working on the federal government doing the same.”
He concluded, “My approach has been that we need rehabilitation of the rail for many things. Obviously for commerce, for existing businesses, but also for businesses that have [spoken] to me personally that they would consider Cape Breton if there was rail.”
Summary of Key Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia |
| Last Train Operation | 10 years ago |
| Light Rail Proposal Cost | At least $140 million |
| Total Line Rehabilitation Estimate | Up to $500 million |
| Key Politicians | Cecil Clarke, Mike Kelloway |
| Potential New Project | Polar icebreaker at Sydney port |
