Via Rail will use the funding to modify Renaissance coaches for use on Ottawa - Montreal services to provide a consistent level of service, improve access for passengers with disabilities, and replace older equipment.

Track and structures will be upgraded, with continuous-welded rail replacing jointed track at various locations, while a new passing loop will be constructed at Barrhaven to improve operations at the Ottawa end of the line. Signalling and centralised traffic control will be modernised and Ottawa station will be repaired with increased platform heights to improve access for passengers.

Desjardins-Siciliano says the enhancements will enable Via Rail to increase services from four to six trains per day from 2017.