Canadian government announces $21 million in funding for rail safety projects
The Canadian government announced it would spend more tha C$21 million to help fund 135 projects across Canada under the Rail Safety Improvement Program — Infrastructure, Technology, and Research. The funds will address grade crossing improvements, small projects such as fencing and pedestrian crossings, and research into safety technologies. “Since its inception, the Rail Safety Improvement Program has provided more than $85 million in funding to enhance rail safety,” Transport Minister Omar Alghabra said in a press release. “We will continue to invest in projects that keep Canadians safe, and that also contribute to the economic recovery during this challenging time.”
Pan Am Railways worker killed in switching accident
A Pan Am Railways worker was killed Wednesday in Newington, N.H., when he was pinned between two rail cars during a switching move. The Associated Press reports the victim was identified as 61-year-old Dale Jenkins of Seabrook, N.H. The National Transportation Safety Board said it was sending three investigators to the accident site.
EPA says Sibley derailment caused no lasting damage
The Environmental Protection Agency says Sunday’s Union Pacific derailment in Sibley, Iowa, did no lasting environmental damage, because spilled materials were contained on site. Radio Iowa reports hydrochloric acid was spilled as a result of the accident, but soils will be tested and cleaned as part of remediation efforts. Forty-seven cars of a UP train derailed Sunday afternoon, leading to a fire and evacuation [see “UP train derails, catches fire …,” Trains News Wire, May 16, 2021].
