A multi-million dollar project to restore over 200 miles of former Canadian National trackage along Quebec’s Gaspé Peninsula took another step forward in December with the completion of track, bridge and tunnel work on the line between Caplan and Port-Daniel–Gascons.

Originally built in the early 20th century, the 202-mile line from Matapedia to Gaspé, Que., is arguably one of the most scenic in eastern Canada. CN operated the line until the 1990s, when it was spun off to a short line. Passenger service, provided by VIA Rail, continued into the 2010s but was suspended after track issues arose. While the western portion of the railroad is operated by Société du chemin de fer de la Gaspésie (Gaspésie Railway Society in English), trains have not traveled all the way to Gaspé for more than a decade. 

A newly rebuilt bridge near Port Daniel, Que.

In recent years, the government has invested millions to reopen the railway line for both freight and passenger services. The latest section of track was completed in early December between Caplan and Port-Daniel–Gascons, a distance of about 45 miles. To bring that part of the railroad back into operation, contractors had to rebuild 13 bridges, widen a tunnel, and even relocate the rail line completely in three different spots to avoid coastal erosion. With the line now open to Port-Daniel, Société du chemin de fer de la Gaspésie can directly serve a cement plant. 

Government officials have said they hope to have the entire line to Gaspé rebuilt by 2027. 

—Justin Franz