Rail-traffic alert beacons, signs will give drivers chance to change routes, save time

Winnipeg drivers will soon have the opportunity to avoid train delays through a new rail-crossing alert system. First-year subscribers will pay $205.00 plus GST, with automatic renewal at $233.00 plus GST every year (a 10% discount off the regular price of $259.35). The system will consist of roadside TRAINFO beacons and digital message boards placed at select rail crossings, alerting drivers to approaching trains.

These beacons and boards will be installed at high train-traffic locations, including the McGillivray/Pembina crossing on Sterling Lyon Boulevard and Kenaston Boulevard. Coun. Janice Lukes, chairwoman of public works, stated that predictive information can help people make traffic decisions in advance and improve road safety. Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service crews at Stations 2, 3, and 9 will also receive crossing information on a dashboard, while the city's traffic management centre will receive the information as well. Joyanne, a city hall reporter for the Winnipeg Free Press, covered the announcement.