Alberta unions host meeting for proposed hyperloop project

CALGARY — Officials with the Building Trades of Alberta (BTA) hosted a meeting with TransPod, the Canadian company that recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the province to develop a hyperloop system connecting Alberta’s two major cities.

The BTA stated it intended to talk to with TransPod about making the project a reality during the meeting held on Oct. 1.

“A high-speed link between Edmonton and Calgary is something that’s been discussed in Alberta for many, many years,” said BTA executive director Terry Parker in a press release. “The Building Trades of Alberta was thrilled to see an MOU reached between the Alberta government and TransPod last month and we want to assist in any way we can to get this exciting development moving, literally.”

Parker added that BTA affiliates have the skills, knowledge, ability and workforce needed to construct the hyperloop system, which would provide thousands of skilled-trades jobs to Albertans.

Parker noted the massive project would also signal a strong commitment to a greener Alberta.

The meeting included leaders from business and industry, plus potential project investors, including representatives from Fluor, Worley, the Alberta Construction Association and others.

TransPod also had the opportunity to tour some of the province’s trades training facilities in Edmonton from the United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 488, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 424 and Ironworkers Local 720. Parker stated workers from these unions would be crucial for building the hyperloop system.

TransPod aims to conduct a feasibility study over the next two years, move into a research and development phase until 2024, then build a test track and conduct tests until 2027 before completing the full 300-kilometre line between Edmonton and Calgary.

The company envisions low-pressure sealed tubes suspended above ground on concrete posts allowing magnetically levitated pods within to transport passengers and cargo between the cities in about 30 minutes.