Calgary 
Alberta’s government is advancing its Passenger Rail Master Plan and is urging the public to participate in shaping the future of rail infrastructure in the province.
The survey, open until December 20, invites Albertans to provide feedback on the proposed rail system, which aims to address the province’s growing transportation demands.
Per the news release, public input will play a significant role in refining the plan, which is expected to be completed by summer 2025.
The survey forms part of a broader engagement strategy that includes regional open houses planned for early 2025.
Passenger Rail Master Plan/Credit: Govt of Alberta
The Passenger Rail Master Plan was introduced in April 2024 and outlines a vision for a rail network comprising commuter, regional, and municipal systems. Key components include:
- commuter rail connections between downtown Calgary and Edmonton and their respective airports;
- regional rail between Calgary and Edmonton with a hub in Red Deer;
- links to the Rocky Mountain park;
- Municipal light rail transit (LRT) systems in Calgary and Edmonton are integrated with the provincial system.
To inform the plan, the government is hosted a one-day forum featuring experts from Ontario, Quebec, California, Italy, Spain, and Japan. These specialists shared insights into procurement, governance, and operations, providing valuable guidance for Alberta’s rail development.
A province-led Crown corporation, modelled after Ontario’s Metrolinx, is proposed to manage the rail infrastructure, daily operations, fare systems, and future expansions.
The Passenger Rail Master Plan will include a feasibility study, financial and governance models, and a 15-year implementation roadmap.
Currently, passenger rail options in Alberta are limited to VIA Rail and the Rocky Mountaineer tourist services, alongside LRT systems in Calgary and Edmonton.
Budget 2024 has allocated $9 million to support the development of the Passenger Rail Master Plan.
