Canal District Owner Voices Concerns Over Train Departure Move

Tony Porco, owner of the Canal District properties, including the current Agawa Canyon Tour Train station, has publicly expressed his disapproval of Watco’s planned relocation of the train’s departure point. The operator, Watco, announced last week its intention to move operations to a rail yard located on Carmen's Way, near Algoma Steel.

Watco Cites Operational Efficiency

Watco defends the move as a strategic improvement, outlined in an April 1st press release. The new location at 429 Carmen’s Way offers on-site parking and easy highway access, designed to simplify passenger logistics. Tracie VanBecelaere, a Watco spokesperson, stated the relocation will keep the entire operation within railway property, streamlining staging and boarding.

Focus on Passenger Experience

Watco aims to provide passengers with more time to enjoy Agawa Canyon Park. The company emphasized its commitment to a seamless, welcoming, and inclusive experience, prioritizing accessibility, safety, and customer comfort during the development of the new location.

Established Station Offers Amenities

Porco highlighted the established amenities and welcoming environment of the current station, located within the Canal District. He suggested the move stems from a lack of support, while acknowledging Watco’s right to make business decisions based on operational needs. The existing station, partially funded by government grants, has served as the official departure point since fall 2021.

Investment in the Canal District

The existing station was a collaborative effort between the Sault Ste. Marie Economic Development Corp. and Porco, who has invested in the area through The Machine Shop and SIS Group. The relocation could impact local businesses that benefit from tourist traffic generated by the train.

Background on the Agawa Canyon Tour Train

Watco acquired the Agawa Canyon Tour Train and a significant portion of the Algoma Central Railway line in 2021. The provincial government allocated $5 million in the same year for projects in the Canal District, including the construction of the current train station. Ticket sales for the upcoming season, running from early August to mid-October, began on April 3rd.

Implications for Passengers and Local Economy

The rail yard on Carmen’s Way currently offers fewer amenities, raising concerns about passenger comfort and accessibility. The shift in priorities towards logistical optimization and railway property control could pose challenges to the future business of the Canal District and its reliance on tourism.