Transport Canada Investing $16.5 Million in Rail Safety Projects
"We have taken many steps to strengthen rail safety and will continue working on ways to make our railway system safer for Canadians. Our renewed commitment to the Rail Safety Improvement Program demonstrates our dedication to modernizing the railway system so that Canada continues to have one of the safest rail systems in the world," Minister of Transport Marc Garneau said.
Marc Garneau, Canada's minister of Transport, announced the government of Canada is providing $16.5 million under the Rail Safety Improvement Program to support 136 new projects and initiatives, including improvements to 104 grade crossings and rail infrastructure across the country. Transport Canada considers the Rail Safety Improvement Program to be an essential component of the government's commitment to improving rail safety; during the past four years, the government has invested more than $71 million to promote rail safety.
The funding announced April 16 is going to 136 new projects that focus on infrastructure, technology, and research, including safety improvements on rail property; the use of innovative technologies; research and studies; and the closing of some grade crossings that present safety concerns.
"Rail safety is my top priority. We have taken many steps to strengthen rail safety and will continue working on ways to make our railway system safer for Canadians. Our renewed commitment to the Rail Safety Improvement Program demonstrates our dedication to modernizing the railway system so that Canada continues to have one of the safest rail systems in the world," Garneau said.
According to his agency, grade crossing and trespassing accidents still are the leading causes of rail-related deaths and serious injuries in Canada. The agency is taking these actions to implement recommendations from the 2018 Railway Safety Act Review report, including improving grade crossing safety and safer interactions of people and trains, with the Rail Safety Improvement Program providing funds to support local investments in safer railways through two key components: 1) Infrastructure, Technology and Research, and 2) Public Education and Awareness.
The Infrastructure, Technology and Research component supports a range of eligible safety improvements, including improved lighting, upgraded rail crossing signals, and pedestrian overpasses.