Question 1

Why did you choose a collaborative development model that entrusts a portion of the Rapid Train Network project to the private sector?

Accepted Answer

Given the size, scale and complexity of the project, the Government of Canada has chosen an innovative public-private partnership model. The collaborative approach combines the strengths of both public and private sectors to deliver the HFR project more effectively. It allows us to leverage private-sector expertise in design, construction, and innovation, while ensuring the project aligns with Canada’s long-term goals.

By partnering with a private developer, the project can better manage risks, optimize costs, and ensure that the service is delivered on time and within budget.

VIA HFR will maintain a strong oversight role, acting as the guardian of public interests throughout the project.

This model also encourages innovation, as the private-sector development partner has a vested interest in developing efficient, high-quality solutions that will benefit Canadians for generations to come.

Question 2

The Government will select a private partner to develop the project over several years before knowing with certainty the costs and structure of the project. Are there minimum baselines for this project?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the Government of Canada will outline mandatory requirements, such as those related to safety and to minimum project outcomes that are important to Canadians.

For example, project outcomes will include: producing a significant modal shift to passenger rail; providing barrier-free access to services according to the latest accessibility standards; and improved on-time performance across the Corridor. There will be flexibility to explore innovations to maximize project outcomes, such as including higher speeds on some segments to bring more benefits to Canadians.

Question 3

When will the Rapid Train Network be operational?

Accepted Answer

The Government of Canada is committed to transforming intercity passenger rail to meet the needs of travelers. This commitment is evidenced by the major milestones the project has achieved, and the momentum we are building.

Key Milestones include:

In July 2023, the Government of Canada shortlisted three bidding teams composed of local and international expertise to present their concepts for the project.
In October 2023, the government officially launched the Request for Proposals process. They asked the bidding teams to submit two solutions: one for a conventional rail network where trains would reach speeds of 200km/h and another one with no speed limit.
In July 2024, the Request for Proposals process closed, and the government received proposals from all the bidding teams.

This will lead to the critical step: the Development phase. In this phase, VIA HFR will collaborate with the selected private partner to refine the design, scope, and technical aspects of the project. This approach will ensure that both parties work together to optimize the rail network’s design, making the most of the expertise and innovation from the private sector while maintaining public oversight and alignment with national objectives. The Development phase is expected to last around 5 years.

Following the Development phase, construction will begin using a phased implementation strategy, meaning different projects of the network will be completed and made operational in stages. This approach allows for flexibility, enabling lessons to be learned from earlier segments to improve the implementation of subsequent ones. It also means that certain parts of the service could begin operating sooner, bringing benefits to travelers while the rest of the network is completed.

Question 4

How will the Government of Canada work with Indigenous Peoples to provide economic opportunities?

Accepted Answer

The Government of Canada is committed to advancing rights and Economic Reconciliation for Indigenous Peoples in its development of the Rapid Rail Network project. This begins with early engagements and Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) to full project participation and establishing long-lasting socio-economic benefits.

This approach is grounded in the principles of engaging early and meaningfully in accordance with the principles of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, fulfilling the Crown’s duty to consult and accommodate and advancing priorities on reconciliation, including identifying opportunities for the participation of Indigenous Peoples in the Rapid Train Network project.

In this context, the Government of Canada looks forward to working with Indigenous Peoples on a range of matters, such as supporting opportunities for Indigenous-led businesses. To foster meaningful dialogue, the VIA HFR team is engaging Indigenous communities and organizations to co-develop early engagement plans and collaboration agreements.

The Government of Canada places great value on selecting a private partner who prioritizes and values meaningful relationships with Indigenous Peoples, businesses, communities, and organizations.

Question 5

Is funding available for Indigenous Peoples involved in related engagement and consultations?

Accepted Answer

The participation of Indigenous Peoples is essential to the success of the proposed Rapid Train Network project. To support and encourage the participation of Indigenous Peoples, Transport Canada has made grant funding available through the Community Participation Funding Program – High Frequency Rail (CPFP-HFR).

Eligible recipients may obtain funding after receiving an invitation from Transport Canada or VIA HFR to participate in project-related engagement and consultation activities. Please contact info@tgf-hfr.ca for more information.

Question 6

Why did you choose a collaborative development model that entrusts a portion of the HFR project to the private sector?

Accepted Answer

Given the size, scale and complexity of the HFR project, the Government of Canada has chosen an innovative public-private partnership (P3) model. The collaborative approach will promote innovation, improve service for passengers, reduce risk, improve risk management, and ultimately achieve better value for Canadians.

Question 7

The Government will select a private-sector development partner to develop the project over several years before knowing with certainty the costs and structure of the project. Are there minimum baselines for this project?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the Government of Canada will outline mandatory requirements, such as those related to safety and to minimum project outcomes that are important to Canadians.

For example, project outcomes will include: producing a significant modal shift to passenger rail; providing barrier-free access to services according to the latest accessibility standards; and improved on-time performance across the Corridor. There will be flexibility to explore innovations to maximize project outcomes, such as including higher speeds on some segments to bring more benefits to Canadians.

More information on project outcomes and other elements of the project can be found in this presentation from the 30th Annual Canadian Council for Public-Private Partnerships Conference (CCPPP).

Question 8

What was the purpose of the High Frequency Rail Request for Qualifications?

Accepted Answer

The Request for Qualifications enabled the Government of Canada to qualify three respondents. It will invite them to participate in the Request for Proposals, which will eventually lead to the selection of the private-sector developer partner. This private-sector partner will work collaboratively with VIA HFR to design and develop the High Frequency Rail project.

The Request for Qualifications provided an updated overview of the High Frequency Rail project, and described the:

procurement process including the evaluation criteria, security requirements, proposal development funding support, and key principles of the deal structure;
roles and responsibilities of the private-sector developer partner; and
project outcomes that the private-sector development partner will have to meet or exceed.

Question 9

What are the next steps following the Request for Proposals?

Accepted Answer

Now that the Government of Canada has issued the RFP to three qualified bidding teams, the next step is for the teams to submit their proposals.

Activity: Government of Canada issued Request for Proposals (RFP)
- Timeframe: October 13, 2023
Activity: Deadline for response to RFP
- Timeframe (estimated): Fall 2024

Question 10

When will High Frequency Rail be operational?

Accepted Answer

The Government of Canada is committed to transforming intercity passenger rail to meet the needs of travellers. This commitment is evidenced by the major milestones the project has achieved this past year, and the momentum we are building with the launch of the formal stage of the procurement process.

Key Milestones include:

• In March 2022, the Government of Canada launched the procurement process with the Request for Expressions of Interest.
• In November 2022, the government established VIA HFR as a project office dedicated to work collaboratively with the private-sector development partner to design, develop and optimize High Frequency Rail.
• In February 2023, the Government of Canada released the Request for Qualifications, which brings the project one step closer to finding a private-sector developer partner.
• In July 2023, the government qualified three bidding teams for the Request for Proposals process.
• On October 13, 2023, the government released the Request for Proposal tender for bidders. The government intends to select a private-sector development partner in mid-2024.

This will lead to the next critical step: the collaborative design and development of the new system by VIA HFR and its private-sector development partner, followed by construction, and operation. Public engagement and Indigenous consultations will occur throughout the project.

Question 11

Who are the bidding teams qualified to the respond to the Request for Proposals?

Accepted Answer

The three consortia are Cadence, Intercity Rail Developers / Développeurs Ferroviares Interurbains, and Partenaires Ferroviares QCONNEXION rail Partners.

Learn more

Question 12

How might project costs change during co-development?

Accepted Answer

VIA HFR will work with the private-sector development partner once it is selected to co-develop and design the project.

The private-sector partner will be incentivized through returns tied to the project outcomes with the best value for Canadians. This is aligned with the best practices emerging around the world for delivering very large, complex infrastructure projects like High Frequency Rail.

Capital costs could decrease as a result of innovative design ideas and efficient strategies for meeting the project outcomes. The capital costs could also increase if the partnership proposes to increase speeds beyond 200 kilometres per hour on certain segments of track. While speeds of over 250 kilometres per hour would require greater up-front investments, it would also produce shorter journey times and deliver greater operating revenues by attracting more customers.

Overall, it is expected that the net cost to taxpayers for High Frequency Rail will be less than the capital costs, because the High Frequency Rail service is expected to eliminate the operating subsidy VIA Rail requires today for its current corridor operations. The service is also expected to generate an operating profit. This will offset some portion of the up-front capital costs for taxpayers.

Question 13

What is the Toronto-Québec City Rapid Train Network?

Accepted Answer

The Toronto-Québec City Rapid Train Network is the biggest infrastructure project in Canada since the Saint Lawrence Seaway was built 70 years ago. By developing a fast, frequent, and reliable rail network that will connect major cities between Toronto and Québec City, this project is designed to meet the growing demand for a sustainable transportation option in the country’s busiest corridor. The project will introduce approximately 1,000 km of new rail service, running on primarily dedicated and electrified tracks, making travel more efficient and environmentally friendly.

By offering shorter travel times and more frequent departures, the Rapid Train Network will make it easier for people to travel for work or leisure. The dedicated tracks will also improve the reliability of the service, reducing delays and ensuring a smoother travel experience. Additionally, the project will stimulate economic growth by creating jobs, attracting investments, and enhancing connectivity between major economic hubs. This will support local businesses, boost tourism, and contribute to the overall economic development of the regions and over 40 First Nation communities.

Question 14

Why do we need a Rapid Train Network between Toronto and Québec City?

Accepted Answer

The Rapid Train Network is an essential investment that will address the growing demand for an efficient and sustainable transportation option in Canada's most densely populated corridor. By providing a fast, frequent, and reliable rail service, the project will significantly reduce journey times and enhance connectivity between Toronto, Peterborough, Ottawa, Montréal, Laval, Trois-Rivières and Québec City. With better connectivity, getting to work, school, or just traveling for fun will be simpler and more convenient, making everyday life easier for Canadians.

By operating mostly on electrified tracks, the project will contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, helping Canada meet its climate goals. The Rapid Train Network will provide an eco-friendly alternative to car and air travel, encouraging environmental responsibility.

The Rapid Train Network will be a major driver of growth, particularly for the local First Nation economies. It will create numerous jobs during the construction and operational phases, stimulate investments in the regions it serves, and boost local businesses. Improved connectivity will help attract tourists, further contributing to the economic development of the regions along the route. Additionally, the Rapid Train Network will bring remote regions closer by improving access to major urban centers, creating more opportunities for employment, education, and recreation.

The project will also improve the overall efficiency of Canada's transportation infrastructure. By transferring passenger services to dedicated tracks, capacity on the freight network will be increased, which will facilitate better movement of goods and supporting economic growth.

Question 15

How will the Rapid Train Network Rail benefit Canadians?

Accepted Answer

The Toronto-Quebec City Rapid Train Network will deliver a range of benefits that improve quality of life, support economic growth, promote economic reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples and communities, and advance Canada’s sustainability goals.

By providing a fast, frequent, and reliable rail service, the project will make intercity travel more convenient and accessible. Passengers will enjoy more departures, improved schedules, and shorter travel times, making rail travel a preferred option for both business and leisure trips.

Along with improving travel efficiency, the Rapid Train Network will provide significant environmental benefits. By operating on mostly electrified tracks, the project will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with Canada's sustainability and climate goals.

Economically, the project will create jobs, stimulate investments, and boost local economies along the route. It will enhance connectivity between major urban centers and remote areas, providing better access to affordable housing, opportunities for work, education, and leisure. The improved rail network will also attract tourists, further contributing to the economic development of the regions it serves.

Overall, the Rapid Train Project will transform the way Canadians travel, offering a greener, more efficient, and more reliable transportation option that supports the country's growth and sustainability goals.

Question 16

How will the Rapid Train Network be powered?

Accepted Answer

The Rapid Train Network will make a meaningful contribution to addressing climate change priorities in the transportation sector by offering a mostly electric-powered passenger rail service in Canada’s most densely populated region. This transformative project will provide a sustainable transportation alternative for generations to come. Passenger rail travel currently accounts for only 2 percent of all trips through the region; cars account for 94 percent. There will be a direct environmental benefit to shifting some of those who use cars to a greener passenger train service.

Question 17

Who is the HFR Team?

Accepted Answer

The VIA HFR Team is a dedicated group of professionals responsible for the planning, development, and implementation of the Rapid Train Project. The team is composed of experts from various fields, each contributing their specialized knowledge to ensure the project's success.

Question 18

What is the route the Rapid Train Network will travel?

Accepted Answer

The Government of Canada has announced that the new rail service, running on passenger dedicated tracks will travel between Toronto and Québec City, passing through Peterborough, Ottawa, Laval, Montréal, and Trois-Rivières.

The final alignment will be developed in collaboration with our private partner. This collaborative approach will ensure that the route is optimized for efficiency, environmental sustainability, and community benefits. The selected partner will bring expertise and innovation to the project, helping to refine the design and scope of the rail network. This process will involve extensive consultations and technical evaluations to ensure that the final route meets the needs of all stakeholders and maximizes the benefits for Canadians.

Question 19

What is the role of VIA HFR?

Accepted Answer

VIA HFR - VIA TGF Inc. is a federal Crown corporation that was established in November 2022. The primary role of VIA HFR is to oversee and manage the implementation and delivery of the Rapid Train Network. As the project authority, VIA HFR acts as a strong public sector counterparty to the private partner.

Its key responsibilities include:

Project Management: VIA HFR provides strategic leadership, sets project goals, manages risks, and coordinates with government agencies, private partners, and communities to ensure smooth execution of the Rapid Train Network project.

Co-Development: Collaborates with a private partner to optimize the project’s design, leveraging private expertise for greater efficiency and expertise.

Indigenous Relations: Ensures that the duty to consult is fulfilled and that there is a strong focus on early engagement and Economic Reconciliation through full participation and potential partnerships with the over 40 First Nation communities in the traditional territories.

Stakeholder Engagement: Conducts community consultations and maintains transparent communication with stakeholders, ensuring the project addresses community needs and concerns.

Environmental and Regulatory Compliance: Ensures adherence to environmental regulations and sustainability goals, manages impact assessments, and secures necessary regulatory approvals.

Governance and Accountability: Operates under the oversight of a Board of Directors, reports to Parliament through the Minister of Transport, and maintains independence for agile project management.

Question 20

Is the development of the Rapid Train Network subject to an Impact Assessment (i.e., federal environmental assessment process)?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A review by the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada is one of several government reviews of the HFR project. Others include a review by the Canadian Transportation Agency. VIA HFR has already begun outreach and engagement activities with communities and Indigenous Peoples who may be interested in or affected by the HFR project. These engagement activities will continue throughout the project development period.

For more information on Canada’s Impact Assessment Policy, please visit the Government of Canada’s website.

Question 21

Will the Rapid Train Network project have an impact on our environment?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the Rapid Train Network project will have a positive impact on the environment. By operating primarily on electrified tracks, the project will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, offering a cleaner alternative to car and air travel. This shift will help Canada meet its climate goals by lowering the carbon footprint of transportation in the country’s busiest corridor. Additionally, the project includes thorough environmental assessments and consultations with communities and Indigenous Peoples to ensure that any potential impacts are managed responsibly, with measures in place to protect local ecosystems and minimize ecological disruption.

Question 22

Are there opportunities for communities—public and Indigenous—to provide input to help plan for High Frequency Rail?

Accepted Answer

Meaningful, inclusive and accessible consultation, engagement and communication—with Indigenous Peoples and the public—are key to building a High Frequency Rail (HFR) system that maximizes benefits for all Canadians. Our team has already started to engage communities and Indigenous Peoples to understand views and gather feedback that will help guide the future of the HFR project. In addition, to support and encourage the participation of Indigenous Peoples, Transport Canada is making grant funding available through the Community Participation Funding Program – High Frequency Rail (CPFP-HFR).

Input from Indigenous Peoples is key to help guide the final design for the HFR project. You can stay informed by signing up for project updates at www.hfr-tgf.ca or send us an email at info@tgf-hfr.ca.

Question 23

How will the Government of Canada work with Indigenous Peoples to provide economic opportunities?

Accepted Answer

The Government of Canada is committed to advancing rights and reconciliation for Indigenous Peoples in its development of the High Frequency Rail project.

This approach is grounded in the principles of engaging early and meaningfully in accordance with the principles of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, fulfilling the Crown’s duty to consult and accommodate and advancing priorities on reconciliation, including identifying opportunities for the participation of Indigenous Peoples in the High Frequency Rail project.

In this context, the Government of Canada looks forward to working with Indigenous Peoples on a range of matters, such as supporting opportunities for Indigenous-led businesses. To foster meaningful dialogue, the VIA HFR team is engaging Indigenous communities and organizations to co-develop early engagement plans and collaboration agreements.

The Government of Canada places great value on selecting a private-sector development partner who prioritizes and values meaningful relationships with Indigenous Peoples. As such, during the Request for Proposals stage, the Government of Canada will evaluate the Indigenous participation plans of proponents to encourage collaboration opportunities with Indigenous Peoples, businesses, communities, and organizations.

Question 24

What is the process for Indigenous communities and organizations to provide comments on the RFP evaluation criteria?

Accepted Answer

On May 10, 2023, VIA HFR provided potentially impacted Indigenous communities and organizations a Summary of the Request for Proposals of the High Frequency Rail (hfr-tgf.ca), inviting them to share their views and comments on the upcoming Request for Proposals (RFP) process through in-person or virtual meetings or by providing written feedback. In early June 2023, VIA HFR held two online Information Sessions (one in French and one in English) for Indigenous communities, and organizations and entities, where the project team reviewed the procurement process and the RFP summary document, and answered questions from participants. A copy of the Information Session presentation and summary of the questions and answers provided can be found online at Summary of the High Frequency Rail Request for Proposals - High Frequency Rail (hfr-tgf.ca).

To encourage participation in this process, Indigenous communities, organizations and entities were advised that funding was available from Transport Canada’s Community Participation Fund. The available funding could be used to support participation in the Information Sessions and meetings, review of documents and the submission of comments and input. While feedback was requested by July 10, 2023, several Indigenous communities were provided additional time to provide comments or to schedule a meeting with the project team.

Comments received from Indigenous communities and organizations were considered by the Government of Canada and used to inform the final RFP document, which was released in October 2023. A summary of the feedback received from Indigenous communities and organizations, including how it helped shape the final RFP, were compiled into a “What We Heard Report” and made available publicly.

Question 25

How can Indigenous Peoples and all Canadians provide feedback on the project?

Accepted Answer

The Government of Canada is committed to an ongoing dialogue with Canadians and building nation-to-nation, government-to-government relationships with Indigenous Peoples. Input and feedback from Indigenous Peoples throughout the life of the project is essential to develop an effective project that creates mutually beneficial socio-economic development and project participation opportunities.

The Government of Canada has been proactively reaching out to engage more than 40 First Nations, Innu and Métis communities, organizations and entities. Initial outreach includes providing an introduction to the High Frequency Rail project; inquiring about how parties would like to be engaged; and providing Indigenous Peoples an opportunity to express initial views and feedback on the project.

Indigenous Peoples and all Canadians who may have input, questions or concerns about the project, can provide their feedback through the High Frequency Rail project website.

Indigenous Peoples and the public will also have the opportunity to contribute to the project over the coming years through the impact assessment process. Information on this engagement process will be forthcoming.

Question 26

Is funding available for Indigenous Peoples involved in related engagement and consultations?

Accepted Answer

The participation of Indigenous Peoples is essential to the success of the proposed High Frequency Rail project. To support and encourage the participation of Indigenous Peoples, Transport Canada has made grant funding available through the Community Participation Funding Program – High Frequency Rail (CPFP-HFR).
Eligible recipients may obtain funding after receiving an invitation from Transport Canada or VIA HFR to participate in project-related engagement and consultation activities. Please contact info@tgf-hfr.ca for more information.

Question 27

How can I get involved and/or remain informed about High Frequency Rail?

Accepted Answer

Your voice matters, and we are committed to engaging Indigenous People and all Canadians throughout every phase of this once-in-a-generation project. You can share your views on the project, ask questions or sign up for project updates here.

Question 28

What is High Frequency Rail?

Accepted Answer

The High Frequency Rail (HFR) project is a proposed investment in new infrastructure to transform passenger rail service in Canada. This new sustainable train network will run on mostly dedicated tracks at higher frequencies, higher speeds and with greater reliability between Toronto and Québec City, making it faster and easier for people travelling in Canada’s most populated areas — for work or play.

The HFR project is one of the largest infrastructure projects in Canada’s history. With over 1,000 km of new passenger rail service planned between major city-centres including Toronto, Ottawa, Montréal and Québec City, HFR will help build a better future for Canadians with new trains, and mostly electrified and dedicated passenger tracks, that will serve Canada’s growing population.

Question 29

Why do we need High Frequency Rail between Toronto and Québec City?

Accepted Answer

HFR — with over 1,000 km of rail between major cities including Toronto, Ottawa, Montréal and Québec City — will provide Canada’s most populated areas with a new rail service operating mostly on electrified and dedicated passenger tracks, at higher frequencies, higher speeds and with greater reliability.

The HFR project will provide a greener, more accessible and more convenient way for Canadians to travel as our population grows. People will be able to connect between these major Canadian cities and communities for work, school and personal travel, helping to support the Canadian economy. By using trains with electrified technology, Canadians who travel the HFR network will help Canada’s efforts to reach greenhouse gas emission reduction targets.

HFR will also benefit travellers on VIA Rail’s shared-track services between Toronto and Québec City. Arrival and departure times will be optimized for the convenience of commuters, leisure travellers and tourists alike, meaning that you can get to where you need to be when you need to be there.

Moving passenger services to dedicated tracks will also release capacity on the freight network improving current and future freight capacity and help support Canadian economic growth.

Question 30

How will High Frequency Rail benefit Canadians?

Accepted Answer

Train passengers—who travel for business or leisure—can expect more departures, improved schedules, reliability, and shorter travel times, making rail a more attractive option for intercity travel.

The HFR project will put passengers first by:

Achieving greater connectivity for people living in and around major cities and communities between Toronto and Québec City, and to major airports and universities/ colleges in the region.
Providing safe travel that meets Transport Canada's highest requirements. Reducing the environmental footprint with sustainable energy resources powering trains, reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and supporting Canada’s sustainable development priorities in climate resilient infrastructure.
Supporting economic growth by creating new employment opportunities in infrastructure, in new centres of economic activity and bringing people closer to markets and businesses.
Promoting a competitive marketplace that gives Canadians more flexibility and affordable options for intercity travel.
Increasing equitable access to passenger services for all people regardless of physical ability or socio-economic background.

Question 31

How will High Frequency Rail be powered?

Accepted Answer

High Frequency Rail will make a meaningful contribution to addressing climate change priorities in the transportation sector by offering a mostly electric-powered passenger rail service in Canada’s most densely populated region. This transformative project will provide a sustainable transportation alternative for generations to come. Passenger rail travel currently accounts for only 2 percent of all trips through the region; cars account for 94 percent. There will be a direct environmental benefit to shifting some of those who use cars to a greener passenger train service.

With electrification on the HFR dedicated tracks, dual-powered trains may still be required for portions of the route owned by third parties, such as freight railway companies, that are not yet electrified, and when HFR trains travel through these track segments they will run on diesel or battery.

Question 32

Who is the HFR Team?

Accepted Answer

The HFR Team is led by Transport Canada and includes members from Public Services and Procurement Canada, Infrastructure Canada, VIA HFR and VIA Rail. Each organization has clearly defined roles and responsibilities during the procurement phases. The HFR Team is also supported by multiple advisors, including the Canada Infrastructure Bank, who offer a wide range of experience and expertise and who are committed to collaboration and project optimization. The Department of Justice is the legal counsel to the Government of Canada.

Question 33

What is the route HFR will travel?

Accepted Answer

At this time, the route HFR will travel is not yet finalized. The Government of Canada has announced that Canada’s new rail service on dedicated passenger tracks would travel between Toronto and Québec City, passing through Peterborough, Ottawa, Montréal and Trois-Rivières. Technical analysis and discussions with communities and Indigenous Peoples are ongoing to further our journey towards a final route selection.

Some of this work will be done in collaboration with a private-sector development partner. To deliver this ambitious vision and project, the Government of Canada is proposing a co-development approach to implement the HFR project. After the conclusion of a competitive procurement process, which has already commenced, and through the RFQ and RFP stages, the government will engage the selected partner to advance and optimize the design and scope of the HFR project.

Question 34

How did you forecast that ridership would reach 17 million by 2059?

Accepted Answer

In 2021, a group of independent advisors to the HFR project worked on estimating the number of people who would use the new services in the Windsor-Québec corridor. To do this, they had to perform several activities:

Identify where it could be reasonable to build the new dedicated rail infrastructure so that people could travel faster between cities.
Identify any technical problems that might arise when building and running the new rail service.
Collect information about how people currently travel between cities and how often they do it. They looked at travellers who use automobiles, trains, planes, and buses.
Study the different route options to understand the strengths and weaknesses of each one (cheapest, fastest, most reliable, and most convenient for people).
Survey people who currently travel by train, or who might be interested in traveling by train, to identify what factors influence their travel choices.
Examine how often the trains could be run and how much it will cost to ride them.
Investigate past travel patterns and use this information to predict how many people will travel in the corridor in the future. They considered indicators such as changes in population, economic activity and technology.
Use computer models to estimate how many of them could start using the new rail service instead of driving, flying, or taking the bus.
As the planning and definition of the project progresses, the Integrated HFR Project Team is constantly reviewing and revisiting these estimates to ensure forecasts are up to date.

Question 35

What is the project schedule? Is there a timeline for when the HFR will be in operation?

Accepted Answer

A project of this complexity involves a procurement process that would culminate with the selection of a private-sector development partner to co-develop and execute the project.

With the partner selected, the project will move into a design phase. This phase may last four years or longer, and will involve an impact assessment and other regulatory reviews. Following the assessment, VIA HFR and the private-sector partner will deliver a project proposal to the Government of Canada for its final investment decision. Should the government accept the proposal, VIA HFR and the private-sector partner will build the new railway. It is anticipated that passenger operations would begin in the mid-2030s.

Click to view the project delivery model.

The procurement phase timeline:

Activity: Government of Canada issues Request for Proposals (RFP)
- Timeframe (estimated): September 2023
Activity: Deadline for response to RFP
- Timeframe (estimated): September 2024

Question 36

Will communities in Québec and Ontario who are currently on VIA Rail local service—and not on the new HFR route—see a reduction in service levels when High Frequency Rail is up and running?

Accepted Answer

While it is too early to determine exact service levels, the introduction of High Frequency Rail (HFR) will allow VIA HFR to provide more responsive service to communities on VIA Rail's existing local service routes between Toronto and Québec City.

Introduction of the HFR project will allow a re-design of existing operating frequencies on VIA Rail’s shared-track infrastructure between Toronto and Québec City. Arrival and departure times can, with the HFR project, be optimized for the convenience of travellers, meaning that with improved schedules you can get to where you need to be when you need to be there.

Question 37

Is the Government of Canada privatizing VIA Rail?

Accepted Answer

No. VIA Rail Canada will remain a Crown corporation owned by all Canadians. High Frequency Rail will dramatically expand and improve passenger rail service in Canada.

Under this collaborative model, VIA HFR has been established to act as a strong public sector counterpart to a private-sector partner. It will enter into a contract with this partner to design the HFR and, if the government accepts the design proposal, to enter into a long-term contract to build HFR, and operate and maintain passenger rail service in the Québec City to Toronto corridor. That contract will require the private-sector development partner to respect the contracts VIA Rail Canada has established with the unions representing its employees.

The Government of Canada will retain ownership of VIA Rail, its assets, and VIA HFR. As part of this process, the Government of Canada will require any private-sector development partner to respect VIA Rail Canada’s collective agreements and benefits, and to demonstrate how they will work with VIA Rail’s employees and unions. These criteria will be mandatory and any proposal that does not meet them will be deemed unacceptable by the Government of Canada.

The Canada Labour Code compels the private-sector development partner to employ unionized employees on the terms and conditions of applicable collective agreements at the time of their transfer. It also ensures the basic premise of continuity in the employment conditions of non-unionized employees that would transfer into the High Frequency Rail project.

Furthermore, in addition to the legal obligations under the Canada Labour Code, contractual obligations to ensure such continuity could also be imposed on the employer in the contract, including an obligation to employ any employees whose employment would not be automatically transferred by operation of law. As a federally regulated employer, other notable federal legislation pertaining to workers includes the Accessibility Act and Employment Equity Act.

The Government of Canada will ensure that the public interest is maintained, for example, through an equitable fare policy and minimum service requirements for local communities.

More details on the transition of operations to the private sector will become available over time and at key decision milestones, such as following the Request for Proposals and the co-development phase.

Question 38

What is the role of VIA HFR?

Accepted Answer

To develop and implement the HFR project, Canada incorporated VIA HFR – VIA TGF Inc. on November 29, 2022 as a wholly owned subsidiary of VIA Rail.

VIA HFR will oversee and manage the implementation and delivery of the Co-Development Phase. It will act as the project authority and a strong public sector counterparty to the eventual private-sector development partner (PDP). As it scales up, VIA HFR will take over the leadership of key project activities and will work collaboratively with the private partner to co-develop and optimize the HFR project.

VIA HFR, a Crown corporation, reports directly to Parliament through the Minister of Transport. It operates at arm’s length from the government with the flexibility, independence and corporate agility required to advance this large infrastructure project.

Once HFR is in service, VIA Rail is expected to continue operating its long-distance services from Toronto to Vancouver and from Montréal to Halifax.

Question 39

Is the development of High Frequency Rail subject to an Impact Assessment (i.e., federal environmental assessment process)?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A review by the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada is one of several government reviews of the HFR project. Others include a review by the Canadian Transportation Agency. VIA HFR has already begun outreach and engagement activities with communities and Indigenous Peoples who may be interested in or affected by the HFR project. These engagement activities will continue throughout the project development period.

For more information on Canada’s Impact Assessment Policy, please visit the Government of Canada’s website.

For more information on our plans and commitment related to the Impact Assessment Process please visit our What’s Happening page.

For more information on Canada’s Impact Assessment Policy, please visit the Government of Canada’s website.

Question 40

Will the HFR project have an impact on our environment?

Accepted Answer

The HFR project would improve Canada’s environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It would offer people an option with a much lower carbon footprint than cars or planes. And, with more of us working from home, the HFR project has the potential to create more opportunities for people to live in the community of their choice by making travel, including commuting, a greener, more accessible and more convenient option.

As part of building a greener, more accessible, and sustainable transportation project, we have also initiated outreach and engagement activities with communities and Indigenous Peoples who may be directly affected by the HFR project.

Your input is essential to help guide the final design for HFR, including curve optimizations, locations for stations, maintenance facilities and temporary work areas, bridge and tunnel designs, and any mitigations needed to avoid or reduce environmental or social impacts.

Question 41

Why conduct field studies?

Accepted Answer

Field studies allow us to better understand current environmental, health, social and economic conditions. These provide points of reference that will help decision-makers understand how a project could change these conditions, and to prescribe specific protection if needed.

Environmental field studies help us to record and understand environmental conditions so that we can plan to protect them. Each study occurs outdoors and may involve both direct observation and data collection. These studies are iterative and will continue for many years. They will help inform any future impact assessment and regulatory review processes.

For more information on our plans related to Field Studies please visit our Field Studies page.

Question 42

How will the work in Southwestern Ontario (SWO) be incorporated into the project to support the Minister’s mandate letter commitment?

Accepted Answer

The Government of Canada has contracted external advisors with expertise in railway planning, engineering, and operations to analyze options that would support its commitment to improve passenger rail service in Southwestern Ontario. The results of this work are expected at the end of 2023. After that, the Government of Canada will be able to explore further the feasibility of integrating Southwestern Ontario into the High Frequency Rail project. This would include collaboration with VIA HFR and the private-sector development partner during the co-development phase.

Question 43

What is the difference between high-speed rail and High Frequency Rail?

Accepted Answer

The two systems differ in speed, infrastructure requirements, and station locations.

Speed: A high-speed train would run at speeds well above the maximum speed of 177 km/h allowed on tracks with level crossings for vehicles and pedestrians. For the HFR project, the private-sector development partner will have the flexibility to explore opportunities for higher speeds on segments of track where this would make financial and operational sense.

Infrastructure requirements: Compared to High Frequency Rail, a full high-speed rail system would require more time and money to build a fully enclosed (fenced) corridor, a straighter alignment with full, double tracking to allow trains to run unobstructed in both directions, as well as complete separation of the railway from crossing traffic. Over 1,000 public and private crossings between Toronto and Québec City and Toronto would need to be closed. Many would replaced with overpasses and tunnels.

Stops and Stations: High-speed rail systems are usually designed to optimize travel between two major cities, with limited stops in between. Stations are also usually located outside city centres. High Frequency Rail would be capable of serving smaller communities between major cities and reaching busy downtown stations.

Question 44

Large infrastructure projects can be notoriously hard to keep on budget. What measures has the Government of Canada put in place to ensure costs are properly managed over the course of the project?

Accepted Answer

The Government of Canada is implementing a robust, cost-management strategy for High Frequency Rail to ensure it transforms the way that Canadians move, work, and live. As part of this cost-management strategy, the private-sector developer partner will be incentivized to innovate and reduce costs to create better value for money, while protecting the public interest. It also includes annual cost updates from the private-sector partner, recurring due diligence, open-book reporting to manage costs and scope changes, as well as specific measures at every phase of the project.

All of these measures combined will ensure the Government of Canada is advancing the High Frequency Rail project in a financially responsible manner.

Question 45

What does High Frequency Rail mean for existing VIA services between Québec City to Toronto?

Accepted Answer

VIA Rail’s passenger rail services in the Québec City to Toronto corridor will continue to operate during the development of High Frequency Rail. Eventually, these local services will be integrated with High Frequency Rail services into a single network, and the private-sector development partner will be required to maintain connectivity to these existing communities in this corridor.

The implementation of High Frequency Rail offers the opportunity to improve services on these routes to better address local needs, such as more tailored service schedules. This work will be further explored during the co-development phase of the project.

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