Government of Canada approves rail crossing improvements

Apr-29-10

Ottawa)— Chuck Strahl, Member of Parliament for Chilliwack-Fraser Canyon today announced $228,640 to upgrade local rail grade crossings.

“Improving rail crossing safety is an important measure that our government announced as part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan,” said Strahl.  “I’m pleased today to announce an investment that will upgrade a number of high-priority rail intersection crossings.”

Improvements to the following crossings were announced:

·         Upper Prairie Rd, Chilliwack –installation of gates and constant warning time equipment. Project cost $219,100. Government share $175,280

·         6^th Avenue, Hope- an additional set of lights to warning system. Project cost $4,700. Government share $3,760

·         Pemberton Portage Road, North of Pemberton-installation of active advance warning signs and replace incandescent lights with LEDs. Project cost $62,000 Government share $49,600

This year, the Government of Canada is providing close to $11 million to upgrade 155 high-priority rail grade crossings across the country.  This measure is another important commitment under Canada’s Economic Action Plan.

In 2009, there was a 36 per cent decrease from the previous year in the number of crossing fatalities and serious injuries in Canada.

Almost half of all railway-related deaths and injuries result from accidents at crossings, which is why the Government of Canada works closely with railway companies and road authorities to identify grade crossings that require safety improvements.  The Government also partners with organizations to implement safety awareness programs, including the Operation Lifesaver program.

For more information on the Grade Crossing Improvement Program, please visit:

www.tc.gc.ca/eng/railsafety/publications-46.htm.

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