Local Wainwright leaders are celebrating news that VIA Rail’s Canadian passenger train service will remain on the CN main line.
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In a letter dated July 13, 2026, VIA Rail advised local leaders within the Municipal District of Wainwright that it has no plans to reroute train service out of the area.
“On behalf of the councils within the M.D. of Wainwright, we are very pleased that VIA Rail will continue serving our communities,” Wainwright Mayor Bruce Pugh said.
Currently, VIA Rail’s Canadian passenger train travels along the CN main line through communities including Melville, Watrous, Saskatoon and Unity on its way to Wainwright and Edmonton.
According to the town, beginning in late 2023, the mayors of Lloydminster, North Battleford, Warman and Yorkton launched a campaign to have the train rerouted from its current alignment to the CN Prairie North Line.
In response to the proposed rerouting, the mayors and reeve representing municipalities within the M.D. of Wainwright sent a letter to VIA Rail in 2024 expressing opposition to the change.
Another letter was recently submitted urging VIA Rail to maintain service along its existing route.
Pugh said the service is important to the town and the region for those travelling to medical appointments, business meetings and personal engagements in other communities.
“This service is relied upon by residents, military families, businesses and visitors, and remains an important connection to destinations across Canada,” he said. “We appreciate VIA Rail’s commitment to the region and look forward to its continued presence for years to come.”
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