City of Belleville Responds to VIA Rail Service Changes

The City of Belleville is disappointed by VIA Rail’s decision to reduce services along the Québec City–Windsor Corridor, scheduled to take effect on Oct. 25.  The reductions include the discontinuation of Train 641, which has provided Belleville residents travelling to Toronto with an arrival time before 9 a.m. The loss of this service will limit a practical commuting option for residents who rely on passenger rail to reach Toronto for work.

Train 641 provides residents with an alternative to Highway 401 and makes it possible for passengers departing Belleville in the morning to arrive in downtown Toronto before the traditional workday begins. While other VIA Rail service to Toronto will remain available, the schedule changes will remove this early-morning connection.

The City is also concerned about the potential impact of the broader schedule changes on travel to and from Belleville. Passenger rail is an important part of the city’s transportation network, providing connections for residents, businesses and visitors without the need to travel by car.

“Belleville’s location along the Québec City–Windsor Corridor is an important advantage for our community, and reliable passenger rail service is a significant part of that,” said Mayor Neil Ellis. “For residents who travel to Toronto for work and for those travelling to Belleville, having practical departure and arrival times matters. We urge VIA Rail to reconsider these reductions and work with municipalities along the corridor to ensure passenger rail service reflects the needs of the communities it serves."

The City will continue to monitor the upcoming changes and advocate for passenger rail service that provides practical connections for Belleville residents and visitors.