Alto High-Speed Rail Project Invites Public to Help Shape Toronto–Québec City Corridor

COLLEEN GREEN The Standard

DURHAM/KAWARTHA LAKES: The proposed Alto high-speed rail network is moving forward with an ambitious vision. It aims to connect Toronto to Québec City, advance reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, and invite Canadians to help shape the future of national transportation.

From the earliest stages of planning, Indigenous peoples have been recognized as key partners in the project. Discussions began at the outset and continue through open, respectful dialogue rooted in listening and collaboration. Alto views the initiative as a unique opportunity to integrate Indigenous knowledge, values, and perspectives into the design of an electrified, high-speed rail network which will serve generations.

Reconciliation is guided by four core strategies. These include building meaningful relationships with Indigenous communities and organizations; respecting the constitutional duty to consult and, where appropriate, accommodate Indigenous groups through the impact assessment process to ensure free, prior, and informed consent; creating socio-economic benefits through employment, business, and economic development opportunities; and supporting Indigenous financial participation to help establish lasting economic legacies tied to the project.

Alto is in the development and pre-construction phase. This phase is expected to continue until around 2029 or 2030. Current work includes corridor analyses to determine the best route and detailed design of the electrified rail network. There is also collaboration with provincial and municipal governments. Extensive public and Indigenous consultations are underway. Environmental studies and the formal impact assessment process are also progressing. Both are required for construction approvals.

Under its current mandate from the Government of Canada, Alto is developing a high-speed rail network between Toronto and Québec City, with seven planned stops: Toronto, Peterborough, Ottawa, Montréal, Laval, Trois-Rivières, and Québec City. Construction will be carried out in phases, each estimated to last between eight and ten years, with commissioning taking place progressively as sections are completed. The first segment will connect Ottawa and Montréal, a technically simpler route which allows expertise to be developed early and benefits to be delivered sooner.

The project is being delivered through an innovative collaboration between Alto, a federal Crown corporation providing strategic oversight, and Cadence, a multinational consortium led by Canadian companies with global expertise in rail design, construction, financing, and operations.

As part of its public consultation process, Alto has launched an online information platform called “Shaping the Canada of Tomorrow with High-Speed Rail.” The platform gives detailed information about the project. It features an interactive map showing the corridor under consultation. Readers can click on specific areas along the route, learn about proposed alignments and stations, and provide direct feedback on the regions which matter most to them.

Alto’s approach centers on public participation. Citizens, communities, and stakeholders are encouraged to explore the information platform, take the public survey, and share their perspectives. Every idea, question, and comment shapes a high-speed rail network which is fast, sustainable, and represents a shared national vision.

Canadians can learn more or participate in the survey on the Alto Project website via the 'Shaping the Canada of Tomorrow with High-Speed Rail' platform. Public input is vital in building the future of Canadian transportation.