Local Leaders Forge Key Agreement to Revive Westshore-Victoria Rail

UPDATE: Local leaders have just signed a groundbreaking agreement to revive the long-stalled commuter rail project between the Westshore and downtown Victoria. This significant milestone was reached on December 11, 2025, when mayors and First Nations leaders united to endorse the “Reconciliation Corridor Initiative.”

The agreement marks a pivotal shift in a project that has faced decades of delays and strained relationships. Esquimalt Mayor Barb Desjardins emphasized the importance of reconciliation, stating, “Reconciliation is absolutely necessary for anything to occur in terms of transportation for the greater good. I believe we have a path forward now.”

For over 30 years, regional leaders have debated rail solutions, often sidelining key stakeholders and prolonging progress. Desjardins noted that this initiative focuses on restoring relationships, saying, “You can study the corridor all you want in terms of transportation benefits. But this is about relationships, and those relationships were not handled well at the start.”

Historically, rail lines have divided First Nations communities, leading to marginalization in decision-making processes. However, the new agreement brings together local mayors and leaders from Songhees and Esquimalt Nations, marking an unprecedented level of unity. Songhees Nation Coun. Norman Sam remarked, “I think we witnessed something historic today.”

The proposed plan aims to relocate the rail line away from Esquimalt First Nation reserve lands, creating new economic opportunities for surrounding Indigenous communities. Jim Tatoosh, representing Hupacasath First Nation and the Island Corridor Foundation, referred to this collaboration as a step towards reconciliation, stating, “To see it as an act of reconciliation? A little bit, for sure.”

The vision includes a modern and flexible rail service from Goldstream to downtown Victoria, aimed at alleviating the region’s notorious traffic congestion. Thomas Bevan, CEO of the Island Corridor Foundation, declared, “This is not going to be your old train of the past. The heavy lifting is about to start.”

However, the success of the initiative hinges on government support. Just months ago, Ottawa declined to fund the Island rail project, and significant federal and provincial investment will be necessary to move forward. With the backing of First Nations, leaders are optimistic that their case will be stronger than ever.

The next critical step involves a detailed technical study to determine the feasibility of the modern rail system and necessary adjustments to the corridor. Progress on this front has been elusive for decades, but with political unity and First Nations engagement, local leaders feel a renewed sense of hope.

Desjardins concluded, “I think it is the key to relationship-building and projects of the future. And that means coming together for the greater good.”

Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds and the region inches closer to restoring rail services.