Alto High Speed Rail Network Project
Cadence
Innovation in Procurement, Structure, Finance, and Delivery At the heart of the Alto HSR Project lies a progressive and collaborative procurement model, which reflects a forward-thinking approach to delivering complex infrastructure. This model, adopted by the Government of Canada and Alto, was designed to foster innovation, ensure value for money, and manage risks effectively. Unlike traditional procurement processes, this phased approach allows for the early involvement of a private-sector developer partner. For this project, it’s Cadence, a consortium comprised of CDPQ Infra, AtkinsRealis and Air Canada, to name a few companies. The consortium was selected following an extensive procurement process, to take a collaborative approach for the engineering design and development of the AltoHSR Project. This approach establishes a framework for assessing, refining, and potentially implementing innovative solutions that exceed the project's foundational requirements. Notably, the innovative procurement process has allowed the Government of Canada and Alto to reach a decision on a high-speed option for the project, following an in-depth assessment of alternative options informed by proposals submitted by private sector participants. The financial structuring of the Alto HSR Project is equally collaborative and innovative. As one of Canada’s largest infrastructure investments in five decades, the project will leverage a combination of public and private funding to ensure long-term financial sustainability. Effective Risk Assessment and Transfer Given the scale and complexity of the Alto HSR Project, effective risk assessment and transfer are critical to its success. The progressive and collaborative development model enables the identification and mitigation of risks early in the process, ensuring that potential challenges are addressed before they are escalated. By involving a private-sector developer partner early in the development phase, the project benefits from innovative risk management strategies that optimize both cost and timeline. This approach also allows for flexibility in adapting to unforeseen circumstances, ensuring that the project remains on track to achieve its objectives. More specifically, in parallel with the development of the Alto HSR Project, risks will be identified during the co-development phase, enabling Alto and Candance to negotiate the execution phase agreements thus allowing for an effective risk transfer that is appropriate for the project. Meeting or Exceeding Project Milestones The procurement process revealed that high-speed rail will offer significantly greater long-term financial sustainability as it is projected to capture significantly higher ridership; 13 times more than current intercity rail services. As a result, HSR will generate more revenue, enabling it to fully fund its operations and achieve self-sufficiency. Above all, this is the project that Canadians are expecting. The project aims to exceed expectations by delivering a high-speed rail system that transforms intercity travel in Canada. Trains will operate at speeds of up to 300 km/h or more, significantly reducing travel times and providing a faster, more reliable alternative to existing rail transportation options. By meeting these ambitious goals, the Alto HSR Project will not only achieve its milestones but also redefine what is possible in Canadian transportation. Design Quality, Sustainability, and Environmental Impact The Alto HSR Project will be a landmark in sustainable infrastructure development, with its design centered on reducing Canada’s carbon footprint. By utilizing a fully electrified rail network, the project will minimize greenhouse gas emissions, offering a cleaner alternative to traditional forms of intercity transportation such as cars and planes. Trains capable of reaching speeds of 300 km/h or more will not only offer a faster and more reliable travel option but also encourage a significant modal shift from high-emission vehicles to environmentally friendly rail. This transition supports Canada’s climate goals and underscores the project’s alignment with global efforts to combat climate change. The design of the Alto HSR Project system prioritizes innovation and efficiency. Numerous measures such as new electrified tracks, enhanced rights-of-way, and state-of-the-art stations incorporating cutting-edge technologies and sustainable materials will ensure durability and energy efficiency while reducing the environmental impact of construction and long-term operations. The rolling stock—modern, high-speed trains—will be designed for maximum energy efficiency and equipped with advanced features to enhance passenger comfort and accessibility. Beyond its direct environmental benefits, the Alto HSR Project promotes sustainable urban development. By improving connectivity between urban centers, the rail network encourages the development of transit-oriented communities along the Corridor. This fosters more efficient land use, reduces urban sprawl, and supports the creation of affordable housing near transit hubs. The project’s emphasis on frequent and reliable service further strengthens its role as a catalyst for sustainable growth, making cities more livable and accessible. Social Impact and Transformative Effect on the Local Community and Users The Alto HSR Project represents not just an infrastructure upgrade but a transformative force for Canadian society, bridging communities, improving lives, and setting a new standard for transportation equity and innovation. At its core, the Alto HSR Project addresses one of the most pressing challenges in Canada’s transportation landscape: the need for faster, more reliable, and sustainable intercity travel. By introducing high-speed trains, the project will provide a faster, more frequent transportation option for millions of Canadians. This improved connectivity will strengthen regional ties, create new economic opportunities, and make travel more accessible to underserved areas. The project will also be designed to integrate seamlessly with other modes of transportation, including local transit systems, buses, and airports. This multimodal connectivity ensures that users can easily transfer between transportation networks, further enhancing accessibility and convenience. For rural communities and smaller cities along the corridor, the project will provide a vital link to larger metropolitan areas, enabling greater access to jobs, education, healthcare, and cultural opportunities. One of the most tangible social benefits of the Alto HSR Project is its potential to stimulate economic growth and create jobs. During the construction phase, the project is expected to generate over 50,000 of direct and indirect employment opportunities, providing a boost to local economies. From engineers and construction workers to suppliers and service providers, the project will engage a wide array of industries, fostering economic resilience in an uncertain global environment. Additionally, the improved connectivity offered by the Alto HSR Project will unlock new economic opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs. Companies will benefit from faster and more reliable transportation of goods and people, while workers will have access to a broader range of employment opportunities across cities. The project will also attract investment in commercial and residential development along the rail corridor, spurring urban revitalization and promoting transit-oriented development. The Alto HSR Project sets a new standard for meaningful collaboration with Indigenous Peoples, recognizing their essential role in the success of this transformative initiative. The Government of Canada has made a clear commitment to building nation-to-nation relationships, ensuring that Indigenous voices are heard and respected throughout the project’s lifecycle. This includes active consultation and engagement with Indigenous communities and organizations to incorporate their knowledge, priorities, and perspectives into the project’s design and implementation. The project also aims to create mutually beneficial, socio-economic opportunities for Indigenous Peoples, including job creation, skills development, and collaboration with Indigenous businesses. By fostering these partnerships, the Alto HSR Project will not only contribute in advancing reconciliation but also demonstrate the value of inclusivity and equity in large-scale infrastructure development. This approach ensures that the benefits of the project are shared by all Canadians, including Indigenous communities. The Alto HSR Project is intended to be designed with inclusivity in mind, ensuring that all Canadians, regardless of ability, can benefit from this transformative transportation network. Stations and trains will be fully accessible, incorporating features such as barrier-free design, step-free boarding, and accommodations for passengers with reduced mobility. This commitment to accessibility aligns with Canada’s broader goals of creating equitable and inclusive public infrastructure. Given these factors, this groundbreaking, collaborative, and nation-building high-speed rail initiative stands as a model of excellence and deserves recognition as the premier transportation project in North America.