How high-speed rail would change Ontario and Quebec if it actually happens [Video]

A high-speed rail line linking Canada’s two largest cities, Montreal and Toronto, has been the stuff of dreams — and political campaigns — for decades.

But with the federal Liberal government poised to announce more detailed plans for the project, that dream is a step closer to reality.

In Ontario, the line would include stops in Peterborough and Ottawa. In Quebec, it would stop in Laval, Trois-Rivières and Quebec City.

“For me, it’s really something that could revolutionize Quebec and Canada,” Stéphane Boyer, the mayor of Laval, located just north of Montreal, told Radio-Canada.

“To better connect cities, in a more environmental way, is a game changer.”

If it goes ahead, the train could travel up to 300 kilometres per hour — more than double the speed of Via Rail’s current trains. But will it actually happen any time soon? And what could it look like if it does? 

Here are some things to consider.

How would it affect the region?

More than half of Canada’s populationlives …