Increasing safety of Canadians by investing in rail improvements

The Government of Canada is significantly increasing its investment, and expanding eligibility criteria to reduce injuries and fatalities, and increase public safety around the railway system.

The Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport, today announced the new Rail Safety Improvement Program with over $55 million in funding. This new program increases overall funding, expands the list of eligible recipients and broadens the scope of projects that could be funded to enhance rail safety.

Funding will support safety improvements on rail property, along rail lines and at road-rail grade crossings such as flashing lights, bells and/or gates; the use of innovative technologies; outreach, promotional awareness, educational activities and public service announcements, research and studies; as well as the closures of grade crossings that present safety concerns.

The new program builds on three previous rail safety programs: the Grade Crossing Improvement Program (GCIP); the Grade Crossing Closure Program (GCCP); and Operation Lifesaver.

Minister Garneau also launched a call for proposals for 2017-18 under the infrastructure, technology, and research program and the public education and awareness program.

"Canadians rely on our rail system to be safe. As I’ve said many times, rail safety is my top priority, and I remain committed to reducing the number of accidents and incidents on Canada’s rail lines and over 20,000 federally regulated crossings. There are new technologies to improve railway safety that have proven effective, and through this new program, we can invest in them and expand their use nationwide." The Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport

Quick Facts

• Transport Canada is funding over 380 existing grade crossing improvement projects across the country.
• The new Rail Safety Improvement Program is a comprehensive approach to improving the safety of rail transportation across Canada, through two key components: Infrastructure, Technology and Research Activities; and Public Education and Awareness.
• Applications for both components will be accepted from a wide range of applicants, including: provinces, territories, municipalities and local governments; road/transit authorities and Crown Corporations; for-profit and not-for-profit organizations; Indigenous groups, communities and organizations; and, individuals.

About Transport Canada

Transport Canada is responsible for transportation policies and programs. It promotes safe, secure, efficient and environmentally-responsible transportation.

Transport Canada reports to Parliament and Canadians through the minister of Transport. It works with its portfolio partners, other government departments and jurisdictions, and industry to ensure that all parts of Canada's transportation system work well.

Transport Canada employs 4,700 people at its headquarters and in five regional offices across the country.