WINNIPEG — The Manitoba government has tapped a former federal cabinet minister to lead a study into relocating rail lines in Winnipeg.

Premier Wab Kinew announced Lloyd Axworthy’s appointment following the province’s commitment to provide $200,000 for the study.

Proponents of rail relocation say it would increase safety and free up land for housing developments.

Axworthy says he hopes the study will also outline a plan to centre Manitoba’s capital as a major transportation hub.

The idea of moving rail lines has been brought up since the 1960s, and price estimates have pegged the cost well upwards of $1 billion.

Kinew says the province will have to consider the overall cost and whether the project could be done incrementally.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 15, 2024.

The Canadian Press