Rail Safety Improvement Program funding available

Rail Safety Improvement Program funding is available through two calls announced yesterday by Transport Canada. One covers education and public-awareness initiatives, while the other is intended for infrastructure, technology and research projects.

Funding deadlines and project scope

The programme will support projects designed to improve safety at grade crossings and along rail corridors. According to Transport Canada, the work will help prevent trespassing and rail-related injuries and fatalities.

Applications for education and awareness initiatives must be submitted by Aug. 21. The deadline for infrastructure, technology and research proposals is Sept. 4.

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Rail safety projects across Canada

Canada Minister of Transport Steven MacKinnon said:

“The Rail Safety Improvement Program helps communities across Canada address safety concerns and raise awareness about the potential dangers at railway crossings and other high-risk areas along railway tracks. Through investments in infrastructure, innovation, research and education, the government of Canada is helping reduce risks [and] strengthen the transportation network.”

Context

Transport Canada has allocated up to CA$52.7 million over three fiscal years beginning in 2026–27 for infrastructure, technology and research projects, while up to CA$3 million is available for education and awareness initiatives over the same period. Eligible infrastructure work can include grade separations, warning systems, fencing, lighting and other crossing improvements. For the education stream, the current priority is trespassing prevention, including projects focused on known trespassing locations, at-risk groups and common contributing factors.

Since the programme was established in 2016, it has supported more than 1,200 projects across Canada with more than CA$230 million, Transport Canada said.