Alberta Regional Rail
An integrated travel system connecting municipalities along the Calgary to Edmonton corridor to benefit the region by providing a sustainable system of innovative, affordable, reliable and safe mobility options for our riders that enhances the quality of life and stimulates economic development.
The Calgary - Edmonton corridor is the most urbanized area in the province of Alberta, and one of the densest in Canada. The busiest stretch of highway in Alberta, the QE2, spans the corridor. The region also has two major international airports, the corridor is one of Canadas busiest commuter flight sectors. The ARR plan would combine facets of the flights and intercity bus systems, with standard commuter trains that service all towns in the corridor, and fast express trains that service Calgary, Red Deer and Edmonton.
Rail operations between Calgary and Edmonton started in 1930 with 3 trains per day in each direction, with a journey time of 6-7 hours. In 1955 the Budd 'Dayliner' was introduced to the service, the journey time was reduced to 3 1/2 hours, with 3 trains per day carrying 80,000 passengers in 1969.
By 1982 the service was reduced to 1 train a day, and in 1985 the service was terminated.
The aim of Alberta Regional Rail is the introduction of an updated modern service suitable for today's, and tomorrow's, economy. Creating a fast, frequent, efficient and safe transportation system. Focusing on peak time commuter services into Edmonton and Calgary, and off-peak and weekend services into the mountains to Banff and Glacier National Park.
Utilizing efficient and environmental diesel-electric multiple units, that will run on electric power in the urban areas of Calgary and Edmonton, and in the Banff National Park.
