Canada and Alberta are planning a high-speed rail line through Calgary, Red Deer, and Edmonton. The corridor would serve about 80 percent of Alberta’s population. Trains are specified at up to 320 km/h. The tax rules that sit beside large capital projects are in federal tax measures for investment.
What was announced
The governments announced the collaboration on September 28, 2026. It follows Alberta’s Passenger Rail Master Plan, released in June 2026, which named the Calgary–Edmonton corridor as the first route. The plan adds the Calgary and Edmonton airports and a stop in Airdrie. Airport concessions being discussed nationally are a different file, in private investment at the largest airports.
Who is coordinating it
Ottawa has sent the project to the Major Projects Office so federal and provincial reviews run together. The office is meant to keep the environmental assessment and the safety review from stacking as two separate queues. Alberta still has to bring in a private partner. The $1 billion ruling priority for the largest tax files is in advance tax rulings.
The procurement dates
Alberta plans a request for proposals in autumn 2026 and a preferred proponent by April 2027. That firm would lead design and construction. The schedule is a target, not a construction start.
Chiniki First Nation
The Chiniki First Nation is already in the Prairie Link consortium through CGC Infrastructure Holdings Ltd. The governments are treating that stake as part of the project from the planning stage, not as a consultation that starts after a route is drawn.
The trip
At 320 km/h, downtown Calgary to downtown Edmonton is estimated at about one hour and 45 minutes. The line is meant to take cars off the Queen Elizabeth II Highway. The pieces commuters would actually use are:
- Downtown Calgary and downtown Edmonton.
- Both international airports.
- A frequency aimed at a workday trip, not only a weekend one.
- A stop in Airdrie.
- Red Deer between the two cities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast would the trains run?
Up to 320 km/h.
When is a private partner chosen?
Alberta expects a preferred proponent by April 2027, after a request for proposals in autumn 2026.
Which places are on the line?
Calgary, Red Deer, Edmonton, both airports, and Airdrie.
