Canadian Pacific to close locomotive shop in Calgary

Canadian Pacific yesterday announced it served notice to close its Locomotive Reliability Centre (LRC) at Alyth Yard in Calgary, Alberta, in the next few months, resulting in the elimination of about 130 positions.

The closure decision is the result of a recent Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA) order directing the Class I to immediately cease and desist "load testing" and idling operations in proximity to the LRC between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m., CP officials said in a press release.

"This order poses productivity challenges for service and maintenance work of locomotives during this ordered time," they said. "The CTA order fails to recognize the 24-7 operational requirements and restricts the railway's ability to provide service for customers in Calgary, throughout North America, and those relying on coastal ports for off-shore shipments."

In the coming months, locomotive repair and maintenance work that previously was conducted at the 60-year-old LRC will be transitioned to other maintenance facilities in CP's network. The CTA's decision does not impact other 24-7 activities taking place at Alyth Yard, which will continue to serve as an important rail yard operation, CP officials said.