Canada invests CA$4.5M in rail crossing safety initatives

The government of Canada is providing over CA$4.5 million in funding for 12 new projects to address risks related to trespassing and unsafe crossing practices around trains, tracks and grade crossings, Transport Canada officials announced Sept. 24.

Initiatives include youth ambassador programs that encourage peer-to-peer learning; rail safety workshops for newcomers to Canada; and efforts to make rail and transit signage more consistent and accessible, officials said. 

Funding is provided under the government's Rail Safety Improvement Program (RSIP). Through the RSIP, Canada invests in infrastructure enhancements, innovative technologies, research initiatives, climate resilience measures and public education activities across the country to help improve rail safety and reduce injuries and fatalities related to rail transportation.

The RSIP has supported more than 1,200 projects across Canada since its creation in 2016, for a total investment of more than CA$230 million, according to Transport Canada.

"Investing in rail safety is one way we are helping keep Canada's communities safe. By supporting these projects, we are advancing practical initiatives that raise awareness, encourage safe behavior, and help reduce the risks of fatalities and injuries while keeping our supply chains moving," said Steven MacKinnon, Canada's minister of transport.