Just a month after GO Transit added daily train service between Toronto and Niagara Falls, there's suddenly chatter about extending service to the U.S.
In an interview, the mayor of Niagara Falls, NY expressed his desire to create an international rail line that would make it possible to commute from Toronto to Niagara Falls, New York in just 90 minutes.
READ: Getting From Toronto To Niagara Falls Will Be Much Easier In 2019
The mayor, Paul Dyster, said the addition will boost the economic impact of Western New York. And make his city "a bedroom community for people working in Toronto.”
Dyster's plan would require GO Transit trains to cross the border via the Niagara Falls Whirlpool bridge. Customs would also need to agree to cross the border.
READ: Toronto Has 6th Worst Commute In The World: Here Are The 10 Best And Worst Cities Ranked
Even if all approvals went through, there's also the issue of funding. Renovations to the bridge could cost upwards of $500,000 USD.
But it probably won't even get to that point.
According to Metrolinx, the company that owns GO Transit, there are no plans to extend service to New York State.
READ: GO Transit Expansion Leads To Overcrowding Concerns
“There are specific restrictions when a train leaves Ontario, or any province in Canada, that require a different set of inspection criteria and standards in order to legally enter the United States,” a Metrolinx spokesperson said.
As opposed to extending service to New York state, Metrolinx has instead stated that they hope Americans take advantage of the new daily Niagra to Toronto service once they are already in Canada.
