GOVERNMENT OF CANADA INVESTS IN GRADE CROSSING IMPROVEMENTS IN PARRY SOUND-MUSKOKA
WHITESTONE, May 12, 2009 — Hon. Tony Clement, Member of Parliament for Parry Sound-Muskoka today announced that the Government of Canada will work to improve safety at the railroad crossing on the Highway 520 in the Municipality of Whitestone.
“Upgrades at level rail crossings are an important part in ensuring the safety of both road and rail users,” said Minister Clement. “These improvements will make these intersections safer throughout the Province of Ontario.”
Transport Canada works closely with railway companies and communities across the country to identify grade crossings that require safety improvements. This announcement will provide $18,640.00 in funding for the railway crossing the Highway 520 in the Municipality of Whitestone. Under the department’s Grade Crossing Improvement Program, eligible railway crossings are upgraded, relocated or closed, based on an assessment of factors such as traffic volume and accident history. Improvements may include installing flashing lights and gates, linking crossing signals to nearby traffic lights, or adding new circuits or timing devices. The department finances up to 80 per cent of the total cost of the improvements, with the balance provided by the railways, municipalities or provinces.
“Our government takes rail safety very seriously and it remains a priority,” said Minister of State (Transport) Rob Merrifield. “We are committed to further reducing injuries and fatalities at crossings across the country. In collaboration with rail companies and communities, we are improving safety for motorists and pedestrians alike.”
Transport Canada also supports other initiatives to improve safety at railway crossings, such as Operation Lifesaver — a national public education program sponsored by the Railway Association of Canada and Transport Canada. Its goal is to reduce the needless loss of life, injuries and damages caused by highway/railway crossing collisions and train/pedestrian incidents.
