A consortium formed by AtkinsRéalis and Siemens Mobility has been selected to supply the railway systems for the TramCité light rail project in Québec City, Canada. The Connexion Capitale partnership confirmed the award, marking a significant step for the city’s planned tram network.

The first line of the proposed 33 km tram network would run for 19 km from Le Gendre to Charlesbourg, passing through Sainte-Foy, Université Laval, Parliament Hill and Saint-Roch. The route includes 29 stops and a 2 km underground section. A fleet of low-floor trams, 35 to 40 m long, is planned, using both overhead and battery power. The line is expected to open in 2033, with a projected capacity of 75,000 journeys per day by 2041.

Under the partnership, Siemens Mobility and AtkinsRéalis will manage rail systems integration, signalling, communications, electrification and project delivery. The technical scope also includes oversight for testing and commissioning of the network, as well as long-term maintenance.

Public infrastructure developer CDPQ Infra has been leading the project on behalf of the province of Québec since December 2024, following the collapse of a previous light rail scheme led by the city. Earlier this year, CDPQ Infra finalised a civil works package with the Tram Alliance consortium, comprising Construction Kiewit and EBC Inc, supported by WSP, Artelia, CIMA+ and Régis et Richez Associés.

AtkinsRéalis and Siemens Mobility say that a Progressive Design Build model is being used to create a co-development phase focused on refining technical options for the tramway, the project schedule, final pricing and the establishment of clear performance and delivery parameters prior to full delivery.

‘This project reflects the growing importance of integrated systems expertise in delivering complex transit infrastructure’, said Ian Edwards, President & CEO at AtkinsRéalis. ‘By bringing together AtkinsRéalis’ global capabilities in systems integration, engineering, and major project delivery with Siemens Mobility’s advanced rail technologies and digital mobility solutions, we are well positioned to support the successful implementation of this landmark project.’

‘TramCité is more than a transportation project — it’s a city-shaping investment’, added Aaron Branston, CEO of Siemens Mobility Canada. ‘Projects like this require partners that know urban transit and think long-term. By pairing global rail systems expertise with deep local understanding, our partnership with AtkinsRéalis will support CDPQ Infra in delivering one of Quebec’s most emblematic infrastructure programmes.’

The contract award was reported by railwaygazette.com, which noted that the project is being delivered under the leadership of CDPQ Infra. The TramCité project represents a major investment in Québec City’s public transport infrastructure, with the first line expected to serve as the backbone of a wider tram network.

The use of a Progressive Design Build model is intended to foster collaboration between the public and private sectors, allowing for iterative refinement of technical solutions and cost controls. The co-development phase will be critical in defining the final scope and ensuring that the project meets its performance targets.

With a planned opening in 2033, the TramCité line is set to transform mobility in Québec City, offering a high-capacity, low-emission transit option. The integration of battery power and overhead electrification reflects a modern approach to urban rail, balancing operational flexibility with sustainability.

The involvement of AtkinsRéalis and Siemens Mobility brings together extensive experience in systems integration and rail technology. Their combined expertise will be essential in delivering a project of this complexity, from initial design through to long-term maintenance.

As the project progresses, further details on the technical specifications and construction timeline are expected to emerge. The confirmation of the rail systems contract marks a key milestone in the development of TramCité, bringing the vision of a modern tram network for Québec City closer to reality.