Alberta's 30-year passenger rail master plan is set to leave the station after Premier Danielle Smith on Friday announced a vision to link Edmonton and Calgary via high-speed train. The plan, initially slated for release last summer, faced a nearly year-long delay.
Key Components of the Plan
The first phase of the plan focuses on connecting Alberta's two largest cities and their international airports. The passenger rail master plan also aims to integrate with existing light-rail transit (LRT) systems in Edmonton and Calgary.
"A feasible passenger rail network is no longer just a vision for Alberta. It's a goal," Smith said at a press conference at the Calgary International Airport. "With the master plan complete, and strong interest across the province and a growing population putting more pressure on our roads and highways, we are eager to get started."
Funding and Timelines
Transportation Minister Devin Dreeshen announced that Alberta is investing $15 million over three years to advance the planning phase of the passenger rail system. The funding will go towards initial planning for a central station in downtown Calgary, which the passenger rail would connect to.
Dreeshen did not specify the cost for the initial rail lines or construction timelines. He noted that financing options are still being developed but suggested it could come at little to no cost to the province. "You'd have a private sector proponent coming in, footing the bill for the train, as well as all the development that goes around the train stations," Dreeshen explained. "How that looks is still ongoing work."
High-Speed and Regional Routes
The master plan outlines high-speed rail routes from Edmonton to Calgary, traveling at more than 300 km/h, and from Calgary to Banff, traveling at more than 160 km/h. It also highlights regional routes connecting Edmonton with surrounding cities such as St. Albert, Spruce Grove, and Leduc.
Work is currently underway to examine connections between Edmonton and Calgary's LRT systems and the international airports. Erin Isfeld, manager of corporate communications at the Edmonton International Airport, said the airport was consulted ahead of the plan's release and provided feedback. She noted that the airport is looking to revamp its north terminal and explore how it could intersect with a high-speed commuter train connecting downtown Edmonton to the airport. "People are looking for convenience and they're looking for a way to get out to the airport that provides them that efficiency," Isfeld said.
Background and Delays
The master plan was initially expected to be released in summer 2025 but faced multiple delays. Dreeshen previously stated that the department needed extensive time to work with industry and rail builders to develop the plan. The announcement marks a significant step forward for Alberta's long-term transportation vision.
