A CN train (Canadian Press)

By Justin Goulet

CN announces $305-million investment in Alberta

Jun 26, 2020 | 9:30 AM

EDMONTON, AB – The province of Alberta is receiving a major boost from CN.

Canadian National Railway plans to invest about $305 million across Alberta in 2020.

The investments will include expansions such as the construction of double track to allow more trains to pass on CN’s mainline. The maintenance program will focus on replacing rail and ties, in addition to work on level crossings, bridges, culverts, signal systems and other track infrastructure.

According to a release from CN, the investment will create greater capacity, which supports reductions in its customer’s transportation supply chain GHG emissions, by encouraging the use of rail for long haul needs. This is expected to reduce emissions, traffic congestion, accidents and burdens on public transportation infrastructure as one freight train can replace over 300 trucks from roads.

CN notes that moving freight by rail instead of by truck reduces GHG emissions by 75 percent.

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CN will also invest in safety-enhancing technologies including the Autonomous Track Inspection Program, and Automated Inspection Portals.

One of the planned projects includes the construction of approximately five miles of double track between Vancouver and Edmonton, near Hinton.

Highlights of the maintenance program include:

· Replacement of about 71 miles of rail

· Installation of over 210-,000 new railroad ties

· Rebuilds of 28 road crossing surfaces

· Maintenance work on bridges, culverts, signal systems and other track infrastructure

“As our province recovers from COVID-19, investments to support our supply chain are more important than ever. By focusing on safety to support Alberta’s economic recovery, CN is ensuring Albertans get the everyday goods they need,” stated Alberta’s Minister of Transportation Ric McIver.

“We take our essential role in the North American economy seriously and these investments in Alberta are a key part of our strategy to support growth. The Company remains committed to help enable supply chains that fuel Alberta’s growth as we are a critical part of getting everyday goods to markets and consumers,” said James Thompson, vice-president, western region at CN.

“Safety is a core value at CN and by investing in the maintenance and expansion of our track and capacity, we are providing customers with a safe and reliable solution at a time when fluid supply chains are more critical than ever.”

CN employs approximately 2,891 employees in Alberta.