The federal government is investing more than $3.4 million in a number of rail safety projects in Saskatchewan.
In a media release Thursday, the government listed 21 infrastructure projects that will receive $2.8 million in funding through the Rail Safety Improvement Program.
The funding ranges from $6,000 each for the closures of four grade crossings to $555,200 for the resurfacing of the crossing and approaches and improved pedestrian safety measures at a crossing in Dalmeny.
Some of the projects call for improved signage, while others will see the installation of bells, gates and flashing lights.
The communities in which the projects are being done include Lanigan, Swift Current, Tisdale, Wapella, Warman and Watrous. A complete list of the projects can be found here.
As well, Canadian Safety Train Express Inc., is to receive $645,000 for a three-year project “to work with schools, community groups, and other stakeholders throughout Saskatchewan to educate citizens about railway safety and awareness using a real train and education tools.”
“Rail safety is my top priority,” Minister of Transport Marc Garneau said in the media release. “We have taken many steps to strengthen rail safety and will continue working on ways to make our railway system safer for Canadians.”
According to the government, grade crossing and trespassing accidents are responsible for the most rail-related deaths and injuries in Canada.
SGI’s preliminary figures show there were 16 collisions between vehicles and trains in the province in 2018. Two people were killed and 10 were injured in those collisions.