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
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.
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