Saskatchewan boosts short-line improvement funding

The province of Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways increased the 2025-2026 provincial budget allocation to the Short Line Railway Improvement Program (SRIP) by C$470,000 from last year, for a total of C$1 million to be distributed among 13 short lines.

The program distributes grants to support infrastructure and maintenance on Saskatchewan short lines. Industry investments in the railroads complement the province funding, according to a press release from from the Western Canadian Short Line Railway Association (WCSLRA). The WCSLRA represents 19 short lines across British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan, plus rail suppliers. 

Due to recent tariffs implemented between Canada and the United States, Saskatchewan is preparing for possible changes to its export markets and supply chains, according to the WCSLRA.

"Short line railways are here to help Saskatchewan producers and businesses transition their goods onto rail, find creative and flexible solutions for emerging transportation needs and get Saskatchewan exports on their way,” said Rachel Mackenzie, WCSLRA's director of communications and government relations.