No more heritage train runs from Uxbridge

Roger Varley, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A couple of deputants were told in no uncertain terms at council on Monday that any thought of bringing trains back to Uxbridge is a non-starter.

One of the heritage train engines that used to run out of Uxbridge’s historic train station. Cosmos file photo

Tonya Kran and Dan Barnes of RERA Canada (Railroad Equipment Restoration Association) appeared before council to make a pitch to bring back a short-line railroad operation to replace the former York Durham Heritage Railway.

"We're trying to keep the trains here," Kran said. "Once they leave, they're never coming back."

Barnes said RERA was looking to inject a "massive" infusion of money that would go towards rehabilitating the railway lines.

"We want to sit at the table in the Metrolinx discussions," he said.

Chief Administrative Officer Kristi Honey told the pair that the only repairs to the railway line will be to facilitate the removal of YDHR's rolling stock. She said Metrolinx has not moved on its demand for insurance and liabilities, adding: "We can't meet Metrolinx's requirements."

Kran said RERA would be willing to take on the liability, but Honey replied that Metrolinx will not agree to a sub-lease.

"We'd all love to see a short line in Uxbridge, but it's not going to happen," Honey said.

She said the Township is looking at other uses for the railway station and the grounds around it.