Canada's Building Trades Unions, Alberta Partners Sign MOU to Advance Calgary-Banff Rail Project
Event summary
- Canada's Building Trades Unions (CBTU), Building Trades of Alberta (BTA), and Friends of CABR signed an MOU on January 20, 2026, to advance the Calgary Airport–Banff passenger rail system.
- The project, designed within an existing CPKC rail corridor, aims to create approximately 9,900 job-years and generate nearly $700 million in economic output over a three-year build.
- CABR was submitted in December 2025 to the federal Major Projects Office as a Project of National Interest.
- The MOU emphasizes safety, quality, apprenticeship training, and inclusive workforce development.
The big picture
The MOU signals a strategic shift from years of study to construction for one of Canada's most shovel-ready passenger rail projects. The collaboration between labour, proponents, and advocates aims to create good-paying union jobs and strengthen Alberta's economy. The project leverages existing infrastructure and proven delivery models to accelerate implementation, positioning it as a key economic development strategy for the region.
What we're watching
- Government Coordination
- The pace at which municipal, provincial, and federal governments align to advance the project.
- Funding Commitments
- Whether private and institutional capital can be secured to accelerate implementation.
- Economic Impact
- How the project will support long-term job creation and economic diversification in Alberta.
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