Amtrak is proposing a new service linking Detroit and Toronto

Travel between Detroit and Toronto could become significantly easier if Amtrak moves forward with its plans.

The U.S. rail company revealed it would back a partnership between Canadian Pacific Railway in Canada and Kansas City Southern Railway in the U.S.

Canadian Pacific completed its acquisition of Kansas City Southern Railway in December 2021 and has ambitious plans ahead.

There is a proposal to introduce passenger services between the two cities via the Detroit River Tunnel, connecting Amtrak to Canada's VIA Rail. However, the timeline for this project remains uncertain.

"Amtrak has consistently benefitted from the support of the [Canadian Pacific Railway], which has proven to be a prominent player in the railway sector," stated Amtrak president Stephen Gardner on January 6. "We appreciate CP's dedication to collaborating with us and various states to enhance Amtrak services, and we are happy to have formalized CP's commitment to Amtrak's expansion efforts in the Midwest and South,"

Amtrak is making significant strides forward, partly thanks to a president who strongly supports the rail service.

Last year, Amtrak announced plans to invest billions in new eco-friendly train cars. Additionally, a portion of the $1 trillion infrastructure bill signed by President Joe Biden allocates funds for initiatives such as addressing challenging sections along the busy Northeast Corridor and broadening service beyond major cities.

Although an Amtrak route connecting Detroit and Toronto may not be imminent, there are still several options for traveling between these two major cities.

• Driving: The journey between Detroit and Toronto takes about four hours via the Detroit Windsor Tunnel. The toll is $5 for commercial vehicles, reduced to $4.25 when using the DWT Mobile App.
• Flying: Delta Air Lines and Air Canada provide nonstop flights from Detroit to Toronto. Delta's SkyMiles program operates on dynamic pricing, with one-way flights starting at 10,500 SkyMiles. Meanwhile, Air Canada's Aeroplan program offers rates beginning at 9,500 points.

Canada also offers intercity passenger rail service that connects Windsor, located just across the Detroit River, to Toronto's Union Station. Via Rail Canada provides several departures in the morning and afternoon, with fares around $40 each way. The journey to Toronto takes approximately four hours.