EDMONTON — Alberta has completed a long-term passenger rail blueprint and is investing $15 million to advance planning for a future network that could connect major cities, airports and communities across the province.
The Passenger Rail Master Plan outlines a phased network that could be developed over the next 30 years, including regional rail, commuter services and direct links to international airports.
The province says the next phase of work will focus on examining connections between Edmonton and Calgary’s light-rail transit systems and their international airports. Alberta will also work with industry to assess financing models, private-sector participation and investment opportunities.
Premier Danielle Smith said major transportation projects require long-term planning and coordination.
The master plan identifies several priority corridors, including a high-speed rail line between Edmonton and Calgary via Red Deer capable of speeds exceeding 300 kilometres per hour. The proposed service would operate more than once an hour.
The plan also envisions higher-speed rail service between Calgary and Banff at speeds exceeding 160 kilometres per hour, with trains operating as frequently as once an hour.
Additional proposals include airport express and commuter rail services linking Calgary International Airport, Edmonton International Airport, Airdrie and St. Albert. Under the plan, some airport and commuter services could operate every 20 minutes throughout the day.
Transportation and Economic Corridors Minister Devin Dreeshen said Alberta is focusing first on connections between the province’s two largest cities and their airports because those links were identified as a priority by residents.
The province says the plan was developed following consultations with municipalities, Indigenous communities, transportation experts, rail stakeholders and members of the public.
According to Alberta, more than 20,000 people participated through surveys, open houses, stakeholder sessions and a passenger rail forum held in November 2024.
The government says 80 per cent of Albertans surveyed expressed strong support for expanding passenger rail service.
The planning process also included engagement with economic development organizations, transportation agencies, conservation groups, railway companies, airports and representatives from more than 50 Indigenous communities and organizations across Alberta.
Myron Keehn, president and chief executive officer of Edmonton International Airport, said a rail connection between the airport and downtown Edmonton would improve passenger transportation and strengthen the region’s ability to attract conferences, sporting events and tourism.
Chris Dinsdale, president and chief executive officer of Calgary Airports, said stronger transportation links will become increasingly important as passenger traffic and economic activity continue to grow.
Budget 2026 includes $15 million over three years to support the next phase of passenger rail planning. The province has not announced construction timelines for any of the proposed rail projects.
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