Railroad Merger Would Add Service Between Detroit and Toronto

As part of a merger between Canadian Pacific and Kansas City Southern, a new train route will provide service between Detroit and Toronto, among other improvements. WXYZ Detroit reports that agreement also includes more frequent trains between Chicago and Milwaukee, an extension of the Hiawatha line, and new service between New Orleans and Baton Rouge. The projects in the agreement would create a rail network that stretches from Canada to Mexico, connecting farms, factories, ports, and energy suppliers across the continent. The merger is contingent on approval from the Surface Transportation Board. 

According to another article by Eric D. Lawrence, the Michigan Department of Transportation is also planning to build a new $57-million train and bus station in Detroit.

In a press release, Keith Creel, Canadian Pacific President and CEO, said the combination of freight and passenger rail services will not negatively impact intercity passenger service. According to Amtrak president Stephen J. Gardner, "This is exactly what Congress and the Administration are seeking: Amtrak and the freight railroads working together to benefit freight customers, Amtrak passengers, our state/regional partners and the general public."