A proposal has been presented to the federal government for a hydrogen-powered passenger train linking Calgary and Banff, aiming for expedited approval. Liricon Capital and Plenary Americas will cover the line connecting the city to the mountain town, contingent on the provincial government financing a rail connecting Calgary International Airport to downtown.
Calgary Mayor Jeromy Farkas emphasized the project’s significance for economic development and daily commuters, stating it would not only benefit tourists but also facilitate travel for city residents to the airport and work. The federal government’s Major Projects Office, responsible for expediting nationally significant projects, declined to comment on the railway proposal.
Farkas highlighted the positive impact the proposed rail would have on southern Alberta communities, including stops in Cochrane, Mînî Thnî, and Canmore. Joe Pavelka, an ecotourism professor at Mount Royal University, emphasized the rail’s potential benefits in easing traffic concerns in Banff and the Bow Valley, making park management more efficient.
Anticipating a predominantly commuter-focused ridership, Pavelka mentioned the rail would enhance Calgary’s competitiveness in hosting conferences and conventions by providing convenient access to Banff without a car. Despite the project’s long-standing development, the main obstacle remains securing provincial support, according to Paul Martin of Plenary Americas, estimating a construction start in 2028 and passenger services by 2030 with provincial commitment.
Past challenges under the former provincial government led by Jason Kenney, which did not allocate funds to the idea, have hindered progress. Provincial Transportation Minister Devin Dreeshen emphasized the need for consultations with municipalities, First Nations, and alignment with the province’s rail strategy before committing to the project.
Jan Waterous, managing partner at Liricon, expressed optimism that approval from Ottawa’s Major Projects Office could accelerate provincial endorsement, signaling a serious commitment to the project. Prime Minister Mark Carney’s recent recommendations for fast-tracking 11 projects excluded any in Alberta since the office’s launch in August.