Transport Canada announces rail safety education grant award

Canada's Transport Minister Marc Garneau yesterday announced the award of CA$14,250 in government funding to help raise rail safety awareness in Chilliwack, British Columbia.

Through education and outreach initiatives — and working with Indigenous partners — the city will raise awareness of rail safety, particularly for vulnerable groups such as the homeless, youth and seniors, Transport Canada officials said in a press release.

The funding will come from the government's Rail Safety Improvement Program, which helps cover the costs of flashing lights, bells and gates; innovative technologies; research and studies; closures of grade crossings that present safety concerns; and initiatives to raise education and awareness aimed at reducing grade crossing collisions and trespassing incidents on rail property.

Grade crossing and railroad trespassing accidents cause the most rail-related deaths and serious injuries in Canada, according to Transport Canada.

"We are investing in education and awareness as we believe that a more knowledgeable population will enhance our railway system and make it safer for everyone," Garneau said.