Our approach to property acquisition
Alto began the development of the high-speed rail project by first identifying a wide corridor under study and conducting consultations early in the process. We are now working to identify a narrower rail route that minimizes impacts on property owners, communities, agricultural operations, and the environment, while meeting high-speed rail technical and safety requirements.
Wherever possible, we seek to use or be adjacent to existing transportation and utility corridors to reduce the need to acquire private property. Despite our best efforts, property acquisitions will still be necessary.
Our commitment is to engage with owners directly, respectfully, and at every stage, and to work toward fair outcomes that reflect the full impact over time on the property and its specific circumstances. Each property will be assessed based on its individual situation, including the needs of owners, and, where applicable, tenants and agricultural operations.
Where we are now
Alto’s first public consultation process, which ended on April 24, was designed to help refine the wide study area and reflect the priorities of communities from Toronto to Québec City.
While the study corridor is approximately 10 kilometres wide, the final right-of-way will be approximately 60 metres wide, which means that the study area includes significantly more properties than those that will ultimately be required.
Once a route (we often call it the “alignment”) is sufficiently defined, Alto will be able to determine which properties are directly impacted and inform their owners. A more precise corridor for the Ottawa to Montreal segment is expected to be presented by fall 2026, with narrowed corridors for the other segments to follow later. If a property of interest to the project becomes available for sale, Alto can also assess the opportunity to make an offer at fair market value.
Have a question?
We understand that you may have questions. At this stage, the specific properties that may be affected by the network have not yet been identified, which means Alto can only share general information about its overall approach. As the project progresses, dedicated communication channels will be established.
If a property is confirmed as being impacted, Alto will communicate directly with the owner to provide information and support throughout the process.