High-speed rail took another step forward last week.

Alto, the Crown corporation responsible for the project, announced that it had signed a contract on March 21 with the Cadence consortium to launch the project’s design and development phase.

“The way in which a project is developed is as crucial as the project itself. In collaboration with Cadence, we are bringing together a unique group of experts, combining the expertise of a Crown corporation with the experience of a team of world-class private partners,” said Alto President and CEO, Martin Imbleau. “The signing of the contract demonstrates our shared commitment to develop a high-speed rail network that will exceed Canadians’ highest expectations.”

With dedicated passenger tracks and peak speeds of up to 300km/h, Alto will significantly reduce travel times—even halve it in some cases—between major cities in the Toronto–Québec City corridor.

As Canada’s largest public infrastructure project, the project is expected to provide a major boost to the economy and provide an efficient, economic and environmentally friendly transport alternative to air and car travel.

“The members of Cadence are extremely proud to be working with Alto on this transformative project for the country's economy and communities,” said Cadence general manager Daniel Farina. “Our team brings unparalleled expertise in designing, building, financing, operating and maintaining complex rail projects around the world. We are committed to delivering a high-speed rail system that will redefine rail transportation in Canada and change the lives of millions of Canadians.”

The consortium members are CDPQ Infra, AtkinsRéalis, Keolis, SYSTRA Canada, Air Canada and SNCF Voyageurs.

The phase now beginning will confirm the route, obtain the necessary environmental permits and acquire the necessary land. It will also be used to pursue more concrete discussions with First Nations representatives and host communities.

The work will enable the cost, financial structure and timetable for the project to be established.

It’s expected the project will create up to $35 billion in annual GDP output, and employ more than 51,000 people during construction.