Alto has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) to establish a framework for environmental collaboration during the development of Canada’s high-speed rail network.
The agreement sets out how the two organisations will work together to integrate environmental considerations, watershed management, climate resilience and mitigation measures throughout the project’s planning and development.
The partnership formalises cooperation on planning, environmental assessment and project development activities, with both organisations committing to early engagement and science-based decision-making.
Martin Imbleau, President and Chief Executive Officer of Alto, said:This agreement reflects a shared commitment to integrating environmental considerations to the project development, as part of the federal Impact Assessment. The TRCA’s expertise and long-standing role in environmental protection in the Greater Toronto Area make them a key partner as we move forward. Collaborations like this support better project outcomes and create opportunities to enhance environmental value alongside infrastructure development.
Under the MoU, TRCA will provide technical expertise across several areas, including planning and design review, environmental modelling and data sharing, flood and erosion risk management, climate adaptation, habitat restoration, biodiversity protection and greenspace management. The agreement also covers public engagement initiatives and coordination relating to access to public land within TRCA’s jurisdiction.
John MacKenzie, Chief Executive Officer of TRCA, said:As the federal government moves forward with this important nation-building project within the City of Toronto, York Region, and Durham Region, TRCA is working to ensure that this transformative federal infrastructure benefits from TRCA’s expertise in watershed science, natural hazard management, and environmental planning and stewardship. Through this collaboration, TRCA will work closely with Alto and its agency and municipal partners to help identify opportunities to reduce negative environmental impacts, address natural hazards, strengthen resilience, and support sustainable project outcomes as planning for the project moves forward.
TRCA has already participated in environmental roundtable discussions and technical exchanges relating to the proposed high-speed rail project. The signing of the MoU formalises ongoing collaboration between the two organisations as planning continues
