A Moment with the Mayor: Be Rail Smart
The sound of a train whistle in Lloydminster usually means one thing: you may be waiting at the next crossing while a train makes its way through the city. At other times, that whistle may signal rail cars being moved between tracks.
While the wait can sometimes be frustrating, railways have played an important role in Lloydminster since the earliest days of our community.
Our railway history dates back to the arrival of trainloads of settlers following the Barr Colonists and Rev. Lloyd. The railway became a lifeline connecting the settlements that would become Lloydminster, Saskatchewan, and Lloydminster, Alberta. It carried grain, milk, and livestock produced in the area to other markets while bringing new settlers, goods, and supplies into our growing communities.
As Lloydminster grew, so did the role of rail. The discovery of oil brought new industry and additional rail traffic to the region, while the development of the canola crushing facility created another source of rail traffic moving both into and out of the city.
Today, the railway operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, moving commodities and freight that support our community and regional economy. Rail continues to be an important part of the transportation network serving Lloydminster.
Many railway crossings within the city are equipped with bells, flashing lights, and gates that activate as a train approaches. However, not every crossing has these warning systems. Some private crossings, including several along 52 Street, do not have the same enhanced signals. At these locations, train whistles provide an important audible warning that a train is approaching.
Rail safety also depends on all of us paying attention around crossings.
The “Look, Listen, Live” rail safety program uses ground markings at crossings to remind pedestrians and cyclists to be aware of approaching trains, particularly when they may be distracted by headphones, phones, traffic, or their surroundings. CN Police have installed “Look, Listen, Live” decals on paths and sidewalks at CN crossings in Lloydminster. We continue to work with CPKC Police to ensure appropriate safety messaging is in place at CPKC crossings and that these decals are maintained for everyone’s safety.
Whether you are driving, walking, or cycling, always obey railway signals, stay alert around tracks, and never attempt to cross when a train is approaching.
Rail safety is a shared priority for the City, railway operators, and the federal government. If you experience an issue with a railway crossing or its signals, please report it directly to the appropriate railway police service.
For CN crossings, contact CN Police at 1-800-465-9239. For CPKC crossings, contact CPKC Police at 1-800-716-9132.
Mayor Gerald S. Aalbers
City of Lloydminster