Challenges of High-Speed Rail in Canada

In this episode of The Missing Middle, hosts Sabrina Maddeaux and Michael Moffatt discuss the recent announcement of a high-speed rail project in Canada with transit expert Reece Martin. They explore the details of the proposed rail line, the political motivations behind it, and the challenges Canada faces in implementing effective transit solutions compared to other countries. The conversation highlights the need for a shift in approach to infrastructure projects, emphasizing the importance of political will, investment, and learning from international best practices.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:16 High-speed rail announcement outlined

02:31Why doesn't the route go further south?

04:20 Canada studies high-speed rail a lot

06:49 Why is Europe so much better at rail?

08:50 Comparing Canada’s ability to build HSR to other countries

11:13 Why is it so much more expensive to build in Canada?

13:34 Reese becomes Canada’s HSR Czar

16:05 A vision for high-speed rail in Canada

18:20 Examining the California rail debacle

21:00 How do you convince drivers that rail is good for everyone?

24:20 Reese’s analysis of the Canada’s political landscape

Links:

Reese Martin on the Missing Middle

High-speed rail line with 300 km/h trains will run between Toronto and Quebec City, Trudeau announces

High Speed Rail Canada

Eglinton Crosstown will open no earlier than mid-2025, TTC chair says

California watchdog says high-speed rail on track to blow more deadlines

Why Passenger Trains Suck in Canada - VIA Rail

North America Will Never Be the Netherlands - Interview with Not Just Bikes

Guest:

Reece Martin https://reecemartin.ca/about/

https://www.youtube.com/@RMTransit

Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina Maddeaux

Produced by Meredith Martin

This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.