Systra presents Toronto-Québec City High-Speed Rail

Alto and the Cadence team have reached a major milestone with the signing of a contract for the tangible progress of the high-speed rail network between Toronto and Québec City. This important step marks the beginning of the important design and development phase of this ambitious project, announced on February 19, 2025, by the Government of Canada. It also marks a critical step in improving mobility within the country.

With dedicated passenger tracks and peak speeds of up to 300km/h, Alto will significantly reduce travel times—even halve it in some cases—between major cities in the Toronto–Québec City corridor. Through nearly 1,000 kilometres of electrified tracks, the network will help reduce intercity transportation’s carbon footprint while transforming the user experience. As Canada’s largest public infrastructure project, this initiative will drive the economy and provide an efficient, economic and environmentally friendly transport alternative to air and car travel.

The phase now beginning will confirm the route, obtain the necessary environmental permits and acquire the necessary land. It will also be used to pursue more concrete discussions with First Nations representatives and host communities. This work will enable the cost, financial structure and timetable for the project to be established.

The Alto network, supported by Transport Canada, is a necessary investment that benefits the entire country. It will connect our lives and cities faster, more frequently and reliably, while reducing transportation costs and driving economic growth. With Alto, Canada is finally getting the transportation infrastructure it needs.

www.systra.com