In 2013 after returning to where I had grown up I was impacted by the changes I had observed. Banff National Park was always the place that spoke to my soul and its beauty brough me regeneration. It had changed, people were changing it.
These factors brought inspiration.
The Concept
On first glance this project was an infrastructure project to construct high speed rail from Calgary International Airport to Banff National Park.
Moreover, behind this concept was a much more important initiative to protect Banff National Park from the damage being caused by increasing motor vehicle and human traffic throughout the park.
The Mission
To be Canada’s first High Speed Rail providing service from Calgary International Airport to Banff National Park.
The Purpose
HSBanff was, and should continue to be, a private not-for-profit undertaking whose purpose is to prove the feasibility of high speed rail as a viable and efficient transportation alternative in Canada while supporting protection of natural habitat in Banff.
The Unique Approach to Corporate Governance
HSBanff represents a unique collaboration of government, communities and stakeholders. All key stakeholders are members of the Company.
The Board of Directors is comprised of 8 members:
- Two directors elected by the Government of Canada;
- One director elected by the To Be Annouced;
- One director elected by businesses through the To Be Announced;
- Three independent directors elected by the Board through the Director member; and,
- The Chief Executive Officer.
An Advisory Board representing COMMUNITIES and STAKEHOLDERS is appointed at the Company’s Annual General Meeting. The community and stakeholder group shall elect these members.
Some Things You Didn’t Know
After participation in live television and radio interviews and numerous news publications HSBanff was contacted by a foreign financial institution. who wanted to commit funding.
Initially the request was that we visit Beijing to discuss details and that we prepare further information on the possibility of continuing the rail project to Vancouver.
Subsequently we were not aware at the time but this offer was likely part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) which kicked off in 2013.
Following a personal relationship breakdown and a requested settlement of 50% of the future value of this Not For Profit.
As a result we elected to dissolve the corporation.
Additionally the founders were not interested in 100% foreign ownership.
Will It Be Successful?
Subsequently I am pleased to see continued updates on this concept and find that a handful of unique individuals continue to work on its implementation.
Finally, One last comment, in Canada we often lack vision.
We sometimes lack the boldness to shoot high and achieve that huge audacious goal that inspires us. This project was created in the spirit of leadership and will attract leaders.
Check out our current public Creative Projects.