Ottawa-Montreal confirmed as Canada first high-speed rail line

The future Alto High-Speed Rail project will be one of Canada’s largest infrastructure investments in the decades to come. Building the first high-speed rail network in Canada will turbocharge the economy, create well-paying jobs, support Canadian businesses and industry while delivering to Canadians the transportation system deserving of a major economy.

On December 12, 2025, the Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, the Honourable Steven MacKinnon, joined by Alto President & CEO Martin Imbleau, announced that the first segment of the High-Speed Rail network will run between Ottawa and Montreal. Confirming this segment as the first to move forward is a recognition of its potential to deliver early benefits to travelers, communities and the economy.

Spanning two provinces, this first segment proposes a shorter route, approximately 200 km. This plan lets teams in both provinces start working at the same time, which means local communities can see benefits sooner, and workers can build the skills needed to expand the network more quickly toward both Toronto and Québec City. Construction of the Ottawa-Montreal segment is expected to begin in 2029.

Beginning this January 2026, Alto will begin a comprehensive three-month consultation process. Through open houses, virtual sessions, and an online platform, Canadians will have multiple opportunities to share their views on the corridor under study. This process is just the start of a continuing conversation that will go on after the first consultation phase. It will inform the selection of the preferred alignment and station locations, and guide efforts to minimize impacts, and strengthen local benefits.

Alto will continue to engage Indigenous communities, municipalities, and public institutions regarding the project’s development, including design, environmental studies, construction and long-term operations. Each step of Alto’s development will be guided by a commitment to reconciliation and sustainability, while creating real opportunities for Canadians. Full details on consultation dates, formats, and participation options are now available on Alto’s website.

This high-speed rail project is a generational investment that will shape Canada’s economic future. With a focus to design and build with Canadian talent, materials, and expertise, the network will draw on best practices from around the world to deliver lasting value at home. From steel manufacturing and concrete production to electrical systems, digital technologies, and skilled trades, Alto estimates the project is expected to boost GDP by up to C$35 billion and create tens of thousands of high-quality jobs across the country.

“This announcement marks an important step forward in delivering faster, cleaner, and more connected transportation for Canadians. By working closely with Alto and our partners across governments and communities, we are laying the groundwork for a high-speed rail network that will put Canada firmly on the global map for modern rail innovation—strengthening the economy, creating good jobs, and connecting people across this vital corridor,” said The Honourable Steven MacKinnon Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons.