The Cadence team, a consortium consisting of multiple companies specializing in infrastructure and passenger transportation, has submitted its proposal in response to the Government of Canada's Request for Proposals (RFP) for the High Frequency Rail (HFR) project. This project, focused on the Quebec City-Windsor corridor, aims to enhance rail connectivity across key cities including Quebec City, Montreal, Ottawa, and Toronto.
The Government of Canada initiated the RFP process in October 2023, inviting qualified consortia to present their plans for the HFR project. Cadence, which has qualified for this process, brings together the expertise of CDPQ Infra, AtkinsRéalis Canada, Keolis Canada, SYSTRA Canada, Air Canada, and SNCF Voyageurs. These organizations are recognized for their capabilities in the design, development, and operation of transportation infrastructure, a collective experience that the consortium hopes will meet the project’s goals of improved connectivity and mobility.
The HFR project is part of Canada’s broader efforts to modernize its passenger rail services, with plans to establish a network of electrified, dedicated tracks over more than 1,000 kilometers. Trains operating on this network are expected to reach speeds of up to 200 kilometers per hour, significantly improving travel times and frequency between the cities involved.
The Cadence team’s proposal aims to address the key challenges posed by the project, focusing on connectivity and population mobility while also considering community impact. The consortium has also indicated its commitment to contributing to Canada's environmental goals, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions and advancing reconciliation with Indigenous communities.
The Government of Canada is expected to announce its selection of the preferred partner by the end of this year. Until then, the Cadence team will continue its efforts in the ongoing procurement process, with the goal of securing the opportunity to contribute to what could become a central component of Canada’s rail infrastructure.
