Lake Megantic Quebec - A preliminary feasibility study by the town of Lake Megantic is calling for the construction of 11.6 kilometres of new track to skirt the town's centre, devastated by a deadly derailment and fire nearly three years ago.
 
The new track would cost $115 million, according to the study, which was funded by the federal and provincial governments.
 
Mayor Jean-Guy Cloutier has been pushing for a rail bypass to prevent another fiery rail disaster in the small Quebec community.
 
On 6 Jul 2013 a runaway train carrying oil tankers derailed and exploded in the centre of Lake Megantic, killing 47 people.
 
The study, which has been underway for the past nine months, examined different options to allow trains to skirt the town centre of Lake Megantic and found three possible routes.
 
"We have established a need for such a rail bypass, and we have looked at different types of solutions," said the town's deputy manager, Marie-Claude Arguin.
 
The preferred option starts slightly west of Lake Megantic and follows Highway 161.
 
Residents to Weigh in on Options
 
Lake Megantic residents are invited to weigh in on the options, visiting information kiosks and meeting professionals to discuss the findings.
 
The event takes place from 19:00 to 22:00 Tuesday at the Centre Sportif Megantic and again on 11 May 2016 from 13:00 to 16:00.
 
The second part of the study, which will involve more specific recommendations, will be released next spring.
 
Transport Minister Marc Garneau has said the federal government will not commit money to a bypass until the feasibility study is completed.
 
Kalina Laframboise and Kate McKenna.