By Jessica Lepp

City of Kamloops wants Third Ave flagging order rescinded

Dec 2, 2015 | 1:19 PM

KAMLOOPS — It’s the latest step in Canadian Pacific Railway’s ongoing fight to have the Third Avenue rail crossing closed to vehicle traffic and pedestrians.

Transport Canada has recently ordered the City of Kamloops and CP to provide four flaggers at the crossing, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The flaggers are active every time a train passes. The city, who oppose blocking vehicle and pedestrian traffic, is trying to rescind the order.

“The cost of the flagging is quite expensive for the city and CP – close to $1,000 dollars a day.” Mayor Peter Milobar told CFJC Today, adding “Obviously it’s not a long term situation we’re comfortable with, and I would guess CP isn’t thrilled with the cost to them either.”

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The Mayor describes the crossing as a “critical connection” to the area, and indicates he wants to find a long term solution as soon as possible. 

CP Rail Spokesperson Jeremy Berry said in an e-mailed statement to CFJC Today: “Transport Canada has ordered CP and the City to flag the crossing.  CP is in compliance with the order. Trespassing is chronic at both the Second and Third Street crossings, and has gotten worse since the hotel and bar opened north of the tracks.”

In the meantime, as the order remains in place, city staff will be tracking the number of pedestrians crossing in an effort to convince Transport Canada to reduce the number of flaggers needed.

Milobar couldn’t comment on any potential long term solutions.