Building a reliable high-speed rail network to offer Canadians a fast, sustainable and easy way to move is our mission and what drives us at Alto. But we are equally motivated by the positive economic benefits this project is expected to generate for communities and businesses across the country.
Once the rail network is built, Alto is expecting to welcome up to 24 million passengers annually by 2055. Here’s what that means in terms of employment opportunities, and broader economic benefits:
Jobs
Over 50,000 Canadian infrastructure jobs are expected to be created during the construction phase, with an additional 5,000 jobs once the full network is in operation.
The need for expertise
A project of this magnitude will require collaboration with local businesses and suppliers to build new rail-related expertise. Meanwhile, companies that already specialize in raw building materials will be needed. For example, Alto is actively engaging with the Canadian steel industry to support domestic supply chains.
New markets
With trains connecting major urban centres and communities, labour markets will expand, and businesses will be able to reach more clients and employers will have access to a broader talent pool.
Cleaner air
Reliable high-speed rail is expected to meaningfully reduce road congestion and shift trips away from flying, helping to lower transport-related greenhouse gas emissions (did we mention that Alto trains are 100% electric?).
Tourism
Projections show that high-speed rail will generate about $800 million per year in tourism revenue, supporting local businesses and regional economies.
Access to services
When travel between cities becomes faster and more convenient, people have better access to health care, education, employment, and other essential services.
Economic impact
Overall, it has been estimated that Alto’s high-speed rail project could contribute to a 1.1% uplift in Canada’s GDP, equivalent to $24.5 billion today.