Government of Canada Allocates Over $13.5 Million for Rail Safety in Ontario Regions

In a bid to fortify rail safety measures across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Areas and various regions in Ontario, the Minister of Transport, Pablo Rodriguez, and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Paul Chiang, announced a substantial investment of over $13.5 million. The announcement, made at the historic former Unionville train station in Markham, unveiled plans to support 112 projects through the Rail Safety Improvement Program.

The focus of the Rail Safety Improvement Program is to enhance safety at grade crossings and along rail lines, ensuring the well-being of Canadians and the efficiency of railway systems. This multi-million-dollar investment will not only fund crucial infrastructure upgrades but will also address climate change resiliency, promote innovative solutions through research studies and technology pilot projects, and educate the public on railway safety through outreach initiatives.

One notable project, receiving close to $280,000 in funding, is a grade crossing improvement endeavor in Markham. This particular project, near the former Unionville train station, involves the installation of pedestrian gates, fencing, and other protective measures at the GO Train crossing on Main Street Unionville. Markham is set to witness a total of twelve projects benefitting from this round of funding under the Rail Safety Improvement Program.

“We’re investing to improve the safety of Canadians, especially those who work and live along our railway lines. The projects we’re funding in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Areas and across Ontario will keep our communities safe and our railway systems efficient.” The Honourable Pablo Rodriguez, Minister of Transport

“We have railway crossings throughout Markham, and throughout the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Areas. Knowing that the Government of Canada is making these crossings safer will help people in our many neighbourhoods feel safer as they travel to and from their homes, jobs, schools, or any other destination.”Paul Chiang, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship and Member of Parliament for Markham—Unionville

Aside from directly contributing to the improvement of railway safety, these investments are anticipated to have a positive impact on economic growth. By ensuring the seamless movement of goods to market and creating employment opportunities, the Rail Safety Improvement Program aligns safety with economic prosperity.