In February 2025, the Government of Canada confirmedits commitment to advance high-speed rail (HSR) in theToronto–Québec City corridor, funding the developmentphase of the Alto project and selecting Cadence as itsprivate partner. Since then, Alto and Cadence haveprogressed key elements of the project, includingengineering design, environmental studies, andstakeholder engagement. This work is advancingthe definition of a transportation system designedto meet the needs of a growing and increasinglyintegrated corridor.

This reference document sets out the key strategicand economic rationale for high-speed rail in Canada’smost important economic corridor, based on the bestavailable evidence at this stage. It demonstrates whythis investment is needed, what outcomes it can deliver,and how it contributes to a more integrated, productive,and resilient economy, transforming how Canadianstravel and access opportunities.