Railways

An at-grade crossing, also referred to as street level crossing, is where a roadway passes across a rail line at the same elevation. Vehicles are required to stop and yield to the crossing train.

There are several at-grade crossings in Strathcona County. Both Canadian Pacific (CP) and Canadian National (CN) operate rail lines which run through Strathcona County.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Who should I call if I feel there is reduced visibility at an at-grade crossing?

If you find sightlines on the road right-of-way to be obscured (ie. by vegetation), please contact Transportation and Agriculture Services:
780-417-7100


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Who should I call if there is a problem with the condition of the travel surface at a grade crossing?

If you are concerned about the condition of the road, please contact Transportation and Agriculture Services:
780-417-7100


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Who should I call if there is an operational problem with the grade crossing warning system (lights, bells and/or gates)?

Please contact the appropriate railway company:
Canadian Pacific Railways (CP): 780-414-2322
Canadian National Railways (CN): 1-866-926-7245

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Who should I call if there is a missing railway crossing sign?

Please contact the appropriate railway company:
Canadian Pacific Railways (CP): 780-414-2322
Canadian National Railways (CN): 1-866-926-7245

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Can Strathcona County get the rail companies to stop blowing their train whistles at grade crossings?

Yes, but at a price. The Railway Safety Act (RSA) gives Transport Canada responsibility to oversee railway safety. Engine whistling requirements are controlled through the Canadian Rail Operating Rules (CROR). A municipality may work with rail companies to install alternate safety measures at at-grade crossings which meet Transport Canada guidelines to eliminate the need for train whistling. These alternative measures (generally a high, chain link fence on either side of the track) are designed uniquely for each intersection depending on the specific requirements deemed necessary to replace the safety function of the train whistle.

More informaton on whistle cessation can be obtained from Transport Canada.

Strathcona County is currently in the process of developing a Train Whistle Cessation Policy to guide the provisions on the cessation of train whistles for specific at-grade train crossings under the County in order to provide a balance between federal train crossing requirements and the safe, efficient operation of the road system.

It is important to note that even if a whistle cessation agreement is obtained at a particular location, rail companies will always retain the overriding authority to sound the train whistle at the sole discretion of the conductor, as per the CROR and RSA.

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What is the safest way to negotiate an at-grade railway crossing?

A railway crossing sign means you must yield to all trains. You must stop when a train is visible or sounding an audible signal and approaching within 500 meters of the crossing. Railway crossings may have further control in the form of a stop sign, flashing red lights, bells, and/or gates.

Chapter 8 of the Basic Licence Driver's Handbook outlines the proper procedures for navigating at-grade crossings depending on the traffic controls in place at the intersection.

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Train safety resources:

Government of Alberta - Information Bulletin - Train Safety

http://www.transportation.alberta.ca/2993.htm

For more information on teaching your children how to safely negtiate an at-grade crossing as a pedestrian:

http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/railsafety/rsc-617.htm

Operation Lifesaver is a partnership initiative of the Railway Association of Canada and Transport Canada and works in cooperation with the rail industry, government, police, unions, and many public organizations and community groups. Operation Lifesaver offers information on rail safety, as well as free resources for your classroom or community group. 

Further information
780-417-7100

Last updated: Wednesday, August 01, 2012
Page ID: 6035

County Hall: 2001 Sherwood Drive, Sherwood Park, Alberta, Canada T8A 3W7