Another step forward
The construction of the Lac-Mégantic rail bypass continues to be a priority for the Government of Canada until it is fully completed. The acquisition of the land required for the project is an important step towards this goal.
Earlier this year, after a long period of negotiations, the expropriation process was initiated to acquire the land needed to build the Lac-Mégantic bypass. Notices of Intent to Expropriate have been issued for parcels of land required for the Project.
A large-scale project such as the bypass can cause concerns regarding the loss of land or residence. Opponents of the expropriation had the opportunity express comments and concerns to Julie Banville, hearing officer, during the public hearing which were held from May 4-5 and May 8-9, 2023. A report of this hearing, prepared by the hearing officer, was provided to the Minister of Public Services and Procurement in late-May. After reviewing this report, the Minister will decide to waive, confirm, or confirm the expropriation with limited scope.
If the Minister decides to confirm her intention to expropriate, a copy of the notice of confirmation will be forwarded to each person affected by the expropriation and to any other person who has served an objection. A fair and equitable compensation offer would then be made to anyone entitled to receive one.
The expropriation process is both complex and sensitive for affected landowners. They may feel anxiety and worry. We also recognize that this step in the land acquisition process will have an impact on the broader community. That is why the Government of Canada will continue to provide landowners throughout the process and make all necessary efforts to support the community in this social reconstruction project.
The land acquisition is a key step to continue to make progress of the bypass project and the objective construction as soon as possible once the necessary regulatory authorizations for the project have been obtained.
Information
For more information on the work in progress, please visit the website dedicated to the project: Rail Bypass Route through Mégantic
For any comments, questions, or complaints, please contact us at TC.InfoLacMegantic.TC@tc.gc.ca.
Issue No. 7 – June 2023
(PDF, 52 KB)