High-speed rail in Ontario could strengthen local communities.

Alto proposes a high-speed rail linking Toronto through Quebec City and estimates roughly 50,000 construction jobs and about 5,000 permanent positions while saying stations and faster connections could support local businesses and tourism.

Alto is proposing a high-speed rail network connecting Toronto, Peterborough, Ottawa and several cities in Quebec, including Laval, Montreal, Trois-Rivieres and Quebec City. The company says the system will use modern trains on a dedicated corridor and aims to shorten travel times while supporting regional economies. Alto has emphasized Canadian materials and workforce participation across the roughly 1,000-kilometre route. The proposal frames stations as anchors for neighbourhood development and says improved connections could expand access to jobs, education and services outside major urban centres. Key details: - Reported route includes Toronto, Peterborough, Ottawa, Laval, Montreal, Trois-Rivieres and Quebec City along an estimated 1,000-km corridor. - Alto says it intends to rely on Canadian materials and to draw workers from communities along the route. - The company estimates about 50,000 workers will be needed during construction, naming roles such as surveyors, welders, electricians and heavy equipment operators. - Alto estimates roughly 5,000 permanent jobs once the network is operational, including train crews, maintenance technicians and engineers. - The company estimates high-speed rail could increase tourism across the Quebec City–Toronto corridor by up to $800 million annually. - Alto is holding consultations and information sessions across the corridor to gather feedback on routing, station planning and local priorities. Summary: Alto reports the project would generate large numbers of construction and permanent jobs, stimulate local business activity near work sites and stations, and potentially lift tourism and regional connectivity. The company is currently conducting consultations along the corridor to gather community input on routing and station plans. Undetermined at this time.