SAFER RAILWAY CROSSINGS AT NO EXTRA COST

Released on July 23, 2003

A new program for shortline railways in Saskatchewan will improve safety for motorists and railways alike, with no incremental cost increases.

By the end of this summer, Saskatchewan's shortline railways will install reflectorized tape along the sides of their locomotives. The tape improves the day and night time visibility of trains operating along highways, grid roads and at crossings.

"In 2001, the last year for which statistics are available, there were 91 collisions at level crossings in Saskatchewan – seven of these involving fatalities," Highways and Transportation Minister Mark Wartman said. "While much of the track in Saskatchewan is federally regulated, the province is committed to ensuring that our transportation system is as safe as possible."

Wartman also noted that the province has already established a tradition of breaking new ground in rail safety by being the national leader in implementing the reflectorization of the backs of railway crossing signs on provincial railways.

"The railway sign program is paying additional dividends because excess reflectorized tape from this program is being provided to the shortlines for installation on engines and drive units," Wartman said. "As a result, there are no additional costs for this program."

In addition to promoting safety on provincial railways, Saskatchewan Highways and Transportation is actively involved in promoting the development of shortline railways in the province. For more information on the shortline program or Saskatchewan's nine shortline railways, visit Highways and Transporation's web site at www.highways.gov.sk.ca

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For More Information, Contact:

Brian Cook Highways and Transportation Regina Phone: (306)787-2701