The advent of high-speed rail technology and the termination of charter flights at the Municipal Airport in Edmonton, Alberta, have renewed interest in re-establishing passenger rail service between the province's two largest cities, Edmonton and Calgary.;However, for passenger rail to re-emerge as a viable means of regional transportation, it must have a strong presence and significance within the contemporary urban environment. The station, as the rail line's direct connection to the urban environment, becomes an important means of signaling the re-emergence of passenger rail.;The design and discussion presented here are based on re-establishing the appearance and importance of the urban rail station in western Canadian society. The design and discussion of the station are examined in relation to the history between rail stations and the city, the rail station within a fragmented urban environment, and how the station can help the traveler reconnect with time and place.;Although high-speed rail in Alberta does not currently exist, the design and discussion are a response to a fully operational service. The design proposes four high-speed rail lines servicing transcontinental and regional trains, a new northern subway branch line, bus station and underground parkade, massing for a hotel, and an urban park.
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