The Government of Canada recently announced their preferred private developer partner for the Alto rail project between Quebec City and Toronto.

Cadence Consortium, which includes CDPQ Infra, AtkinsRéalis, Keolis, SYSTRA, SNCF Voyageurs, and Air Canada, brings their expertise, deep Canadian roots, and knowledge of the development and operation of transportation infrastructure.

"This landmark project is set to revolutionize mobility in Canada for future generations,” said Jean-Marc Arbaud, President and Chief Executive Officer of CDPQ Infra. “The Cadence consortium's unparalleled expertise, synergy, and successful track record offer Alto, the Crown corporation with which we will develop this project, a trusted partner to bring this visionary project to life at the best possible cost. We thank everyone involved in the development of the proposal for their trust and professionalism over the last year. We look forward to working together to design, develop and deploy this fundamental project for all Canadians.”

Projected Impact

Major infrastructure projects like the Alto rail project impact the growing Canadian economy, making it more productive. These projects are helping to meet Canadians’ connectivity and mobility needs while respecting their communities.

These projects also help meet climate goals and advance reconciliation efforts with Indigenous peoples.

“As a leading operations and maintenance partner within the Cadence consortium, Keolis leverages its expertise in transport service design and customer experience to enhance the performance and efficiency of the future network,” said Marie-Ange Debon, Group Chief Executive Officer, Keolis. “Through our involvement from the early design stages, we integrate our operator culture to ensure a passenger-centered approach, making the passenger experience a truly differentiating advantage. In collaboration with SNCF, we bring unmatched expertise in high-speed services and asset management strategy. This commitment enables us to lay the foundations for a high-performing and affordable solution designed to meet the needs of Canadian passengers and optimize operations throughout the project's lifespan."

The project will also create jobs and stimulate local investments, helping Canada become more resilient in an uncertain economic environment. Cadence and the Crown Corporation bring all the expertise and tact needed to meet the challenges and succeed.

Connecting Canada

The Cadence team will play a key role in the Alto rail project and help make Canada stronger and more prosperous. 

“At SYSTRA, we are driven by signature projects, and Alto hits the spot,” said Jean-Charles Vollery, Group Chief Executive Officer, SYSTRA. “Together with our partners, we will bring the expertise of delivering large-scale projects worldwide, acquired over 65 years of providing sustainable rail solutions in Canada and abroad.”

The Alto project will link Quebec City, Trois-Rivières, Montreal, Laval, Ottawa, Peterborough, Toronto, and other municipalities. The call for proposals was launched in October 2023, and Cadence mobilized the expertise of each of its members to submit the best proposal. 

They were awarded the project because they matched the ambitious vision, deep conviction, and high standards set by the Authority.