The rail crossing at Valley View Drive in Powassan is about to get a major upgrade.
Transport Canada will kick in half of a $485,600 Canadian National Railway project, which consists of the installation of a new crossing warning system consisting of flashing lights, bell, automatic gates, and constant warning device and install Rail Fusion.
RailFusion monitors and analyzes data points across an entire railroad's infrastructure, including onboard and wayside assets such as road crossings and end-of-train devices.
The Rail Safety Improvement Program is a component of the Government of Canada’s efforts to improve rail safety and prevent serious occurrences.
"I don't think there has ever been a major issue at that crossing," Powassan Mayor Peter McIsaac told BayToday. "It's a busy street and this is just a safety precaution."
Powassan put up 12.5 per cent of the cost.
McIsaac believes work on the crossing will start in six weeks and be completed sometime this fall.
“This funding is essential to improve rail safety in communities across the country, including those in our riding of Nipissing-Timiskaming," said MP Anthony Rota
Grade crossing and trespassing accidents still cause the most rail-related deaths and serious injuries in Canada.