June 4th 2015
Update – Provincial Review of Track Infrastructure Project
Ministry of Transportation (MoT) staff, Southern Rail of Vancouver Island (SVI) and Island Corridor Foundation (ICF) has completed a detailed review of the Island track infrastructure project during the past several months and SVI/ICF have submitted a final report to Minister Stone.
Clarification of certain aspects of the project and assurances with respect to the tendering process has been provided to the minister.
The review included the RTC Rail Solutions report. Parts of the RTC report were based on wrong assumptions that have since been clarified by SVI. Specifically passenger train speed would only be 40 mph, not 60 mph as referenced in the report; freight train speed would be 30 mph not 40 mph; track weight of 286k lbs is not necessary as there will not be heavy trains running on the track.
The RTC report indicated they had not undertaken an onsite track inspection nor fully appreciated the incremental approach being taken to rehabilitate the track infrastructure. However the data from extensive onsite work by SVI has been reviewed by MoT.
In working with MoT, SVI has provided a detailed technical review by railway professionals to ensure the upgrade plan will provide for a safe operating track.
The ICF and SVI have committed that no work would begin without the entire project tendered and meeting budget.
The ICF is waiting for the minister’s confirmation of the provincial funding final approval. When the funding is confirmed Infrastructure Canada will complete its review prior to the final approval of federal funding.
Graham Bruce
Chief Executive Officer
Island Corridor Foundation
To view this page as a PDF please click link: RTC Report Letter 2015_June4
