Public open houses have been scheduled as part of consultations for the Durham Region high-speed rail project, a key segment of Canada’s first high-speed rail network linking Quebec City and Toronto.
The Crown corporation leading the project has launched a three-month public engagement process running from January to March 2026. The consultations include more than 20 in-person open houses, eight virtual sessions, and an online information platform designed to gather public feedback.
Input collected during the consultations will help shape the Durham Region high-speed rail alignment and station locations, while addressing environmental impacts, inclusivity, and local community benefits. The feedback will guide decisions during the project’s pre-construction phase.
Federal Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon described the consultations as a major milestone, emphasizing that early engagement with municipalities, Indigenous communities, landowners, and residents is essential to building a modern and responsible transportation network.
Open houses are scheduled in Toronto on February 4 and 5, along with sessions in Ottawa, Montréal, and communities east of Toronto. While specific Durham Region dates have not yet been confirmed, the corridor includes key regional connections affecting Durham residents.
The high-speed rail project is expected to include stations in Toronto, Peterborough, Ottawa, Montréal, Laval, Trois-Rivières, and Québec City, significantly improving intercity travel across Canada’s most populated corridor.
A second round of public consultations will take place later in 2026 after a proposed rail alignment is identified.
