Nonprofit organization proposes Calgary-Banff high-speed line

HSBanff, a private nonprofit corporation, recently announced plans to build and operate a high-speed rail line from Calgary, Alberta to Banff National Park. Trains would operate at speeds up to 250 mph.

The system would enable passengers arriving at Calgary International Airport to transfer to the train and seamlessly complete their trip. The organization plans to provide a single air-rail ticket aimed at international travelers visiting Banff.

HSBanff expects to use "crowdfunding," or financing from project backers, to obtain the initial funds required to complete feasibility and environmental studies before the design and construction phases begin.

"The initial financing through crowdfunding and use of social media to generate interest in our project helps address two critical opportunities early in the project," HSBanff Founder Greg Dansereau said in a prepared statement. "These opportunities include ridership and community involvement. … We know the climate is right for trains."