North Bay Ontario - The federal government is putting $143,402 into upgrading the signal system at the railway crossing on Highway 17 in North Bay.
 
The project will make the lights at the crossing LED standard, as well as upgrade the advanced warning system to include constant warning time at the intersection.
 
"Funding for this project enhances the safety measures surrounding the railway crossing," Nipissing-Timiskaming MP Anthony Rota said of the project.
 
"It is crucial that residents of Nipissing-Timiskaming are aware of the risks that are associated when there is a high volume of traffic on and around railways."
 
The funding is being provided through the Rail Safety Improvement Program, which the federal government says will help save lives and contribute to economic growth.
 
In the past four years, $85 million has been put toward grants and contributions.
 
"It is critical to invest in rail safety. Not only is it an investment to reduce the potential risks surrounding rail transportation, but we are also working to increase frequency and speed of trains, to reduce automobile and transport truck traffic, and the corresponding greenhouse gas emissions," Rota said.
 
Rail safety improvements along rail lines and at grade crossings could include the addition of flashing lights, bells, and gates, the use of innovative technologies, research, and studies as well as the closure of grade crossings which present safety concerns.
 
Author unknown.