New funds will benefit crossing

Posted 3 months ago

RICHARD - MACKENZIE

Globe Staff

BLACKFALDS— Blackfalds South St. railway is benefitting from federal government funding to the tune of $246,596, to improve safety at the crossing.

"There is always potential for accidents in our communities where roads and railways meet," said Blaine Calkins, Member of Parliament for Wetaskiwin, in a prepared statement announcing the funding. "These improvements will make this intersection safer for all residents and visitors to the rapidly growing community of Blackfalds."

Blackfalds Mayor Melodie Stol said the community is very pleased with the announcement, adding that the timing is fortuitous since the town is planning work in the area already.

"We're really going to try and tie it in with some of the other improvements we're doing with South St. since we have to bring our servicing for the RCMP station down the way," she said. "So this is timely and a great benefit."

Stol said the town sent an application for the funding some time ago and communities are never sure if they will be selected or for how much.

"You never know if you're going to fit the criteria because there are some really high need crossings. ."

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