An environmental collaboration framework signed by Alto and the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) sets out how they will cooperate during the development of Canada’s high-speed rail network.

Martin Imbleau and John MacKenzie at the Alto–TRCA MOU signing
Martin Imbleau of Alto and John MacKenzie of TRCA at the signing of the environmental collaboration memorandum. Photo: Alto

The framework brings environmental considerations, watershed management, climate resilience and adaptation, and mitigation strategies into project development. It establishes formal cooperation founded on environmental stewardship, scientific rigour and early engagement.

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Scope of the environmental collaboration framework

The two organizations will coordinate their work during ⁠planning, environmental assessment and other project development activities. Their cooperation will cover:

  • Reviews of project planning and design, supported by TRCA’s knowledge of environmentally responsible development.
  • The exchange of data and modelling resources to inform evidence-based decisions concerning flood risk and environmental constraints.
  • Identification and mitigation of hazards associated with flooding and erosion.
  • The application of watershed science and natural-hazard expertise to improve infrastructure resilience under changing climate conditions.
  • Habitat restoration, ecosystem compensation, soil management and other environmental offsetting measures.
  • Protection of ecosystems, management of greenspace and support for species at risk.
  • Engagement and stewardship, including public education and collaboration through TRCA’s network and facilities.
  • Coordination on property matters, including collaboration and permissions for access to public lands under TRCA’s jurisdiction, including land owned by the authority.

Alto and TRCA describe the agreement

John MacKenzie, Chief Executive Officer of the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, said:

“As the federal government moves forward with this important nation-building project within the City of Toronto, York Region, and Durham Region, TRCA is working to ensure that this transformative federal infrastructure benefits from TRCA’s expertise in watershed science, natural hazard management, and environmental planning and stewardship. Through this collaboration, TRCA will work closely with Alto and its agency and municipal partners to help identify opportunities to reduce negative environmental impacts, address natural hazards, strengthen resilience, and support sustainable project outcomes as planning for the project moves forward.”

Martin Imbleau, President and Chief Executive Officer of Alto, said:

“This agreement reflects a shared commitment to integrating environmental considerations to the project development, as part of the federal Impact Assessment. The TRCA’s expertise and long-standing role in environmental protection in the Greater Toronto Area make them a key partner as we move forward. Collaborations like this support better project outcomes and create opportunities to enhance environmental value alongside infrastructure development.”

Before signing the MOU, TRCA had already taken part in ⁠project discussions and environmental roundtables, as well as technical exchanges. The signing reflects strong alignment between Alto and TRCA and supports continued collaboration while planning advances.

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