Alberta seeks public input on high-speed rail system
Alberta is holding public meetings on the feasibility of a high-speed train system in the province, but the former transportation minister says he is not convinced it’s a worthwhile project.
The meetings will be held in Calgary, Edmonton and Red Deer this month and will be hosted by the legislative assembly’s standing committee on Alberta’s economic future.
Calgary
Feb. 24, 6:30 p.m.
Coast Plaza Hotel and Conference Centre
1316 33rd Street N.E.
Red Deer
Feb. 25, 6:30 p.m.
Red Deer Lodge Hotel and Conference Centre
4311 49th Avenue
Edmonton
Feb. 26, 6:30 p.m.
Committee Room A - Fourth Floor Legislature Annex
9718 107th Street
The committee has already heard from several professionals on the subject and now wants to hear from other Albertans.
Ric McIver, the province's former transportation minister who now serves as infrastructure minister, said he has yet to be convinced about the project.
“I don’t think it has been demonstrated — to me yet at least — that it makes sense, but then again, the research goes on and we as a government, at any given time, we need to make decisions based on the best information available,” he said.
McIver said the committee's work won't necessarily put an end to the debate on high-speed rail.
“I guess if there is a decision to build it that puts it to rest once and for all, and if there is a decision not to build it then the discussion continues,” he said.
People who want to comment at the meetings are asked to register first by calling 780-427-1350 before Feb. 20. Written submissions are also welcome until March 31 by emailing economicfuture.committee@assembly.ab.ca
For more information visit the standing committee's website.
