Canadian government announces funding for grade crossing projects

LONDON, Ontario – The Canadian government announced Friday it would fund more than Ca$45 million in grade crossing safety projects and programs across the country, including infrastructure improvements and educational programs.

Funding will be Ca$44 million for 231 projects under the Railway Safety Improvement Program. The government has already announced more than 400 projects of this type this year, with a total cost of more than Ca$66 million. An additional $1.2 million will be funded under the Program to Improve Rail Safety Engagement, which supports community safety awareness campaigns, data collection and educational resources. Recipients of this funding include Operation Lifesaver.

The funding was announced at an event in London by the new Minister of Transport, Anita Anand, appointed to the position in September.

“Canada’s railways play a crucial role in connecting our communities and driving our economy,” Anand said in a press release. “That’s why we are investing in enhanced safety measures around rail corridors and improving education to prevent tragic accidents. When we work together and remain vigilant, we can prevent rail incidents and keep Canadians safe.”