The federal gonvernment has announced plans for Canada's High-Speed Rail (HSR) project; an electrified passenger line connecting Toronto, Peterborough, Ottawa, Montréal, Laval, Trois-Rivières, and Quebec City. This project is currently in the planning and development phase.

 

ALTO, a federal Crown corporation and subsidiary of VIA Rail Canada Inc., has been designated to develop and manage Canada’s high-speed rail (HSR) network. As part of its public consultation process, ALTO has released potential corridor maps. One proposed southern route would see the rail infrastructure developed through rural areas of the Carleton riding.

 

March 2026

MVCA sent a letter to MP Fanjoy expressing concerns about Bill C-15 and the potential impact the HSR project may have on the rural area.  MP Fanjoy responded promptly.  

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We are encouraged that he has joined the Alto Caucus where he can raise any concerns as the project continues.

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February 2026

While ALTO advances its consultation process, Bill C-15 is currently before the Senate, with first reading completed on February 26, 2026. There are provisions within the HSRNA portion of the bill that are of particular concern to rural landowners depending on the route be selected.

 

Specifically:

• The proposed ALTO high-speed rail project would likely require construction of new rail corridors through agricultural lands. This raises concerns about disruption to farm practices, impacts on rural infrastructure, and potential negative environmental effects.

• Bill C-15 includes provisions that grant the federal government significant powers to determine rail corridors and expedite approvals. If enacted, land could be acquired for the rail project through mechanisms such as right of first refusal or expropriation.

• The HSRNA may authorize a “prohibition on work” designation on property that may be required for railway purposes. Under this provision, a landowner could be prevented from improving their land or buildings for up to four years, even if the land is ultimately not selected for the project. Such uncertainty could place considerable strain on landowners and agricultural operations.

 

MVCA will be asking our Member of Parliament for assurances that appropriate safeguards, transparency, and fair compensation mechanisms will be in place to protect landowners, agricultural operations, rural infrastructure, and the environment. We are also asking to best understand his position on the matter and any actions he mat take to ensure balanced and reasonable government action as this project moves forward.