MP Russ Hiebert (South Surrey-White Rock-Cloverdale) took a tour of a portion of train track in Crescent Beach this week, after a local constituent raised a safety concern with the transportation ministry.
Hiebert said the concern was received recently, and involves the possibility of landslides on or around the Burlington Northern Santa Fe line. He would not divulge the resident’s name.
Hiebert met with Transport Canada officials Wednesday for a briefing in his office and tour of the track at 101 Steps, at the end of 24 Avenue.
“We went down the track about half a kilometre to look at the safety wire system that is in place in that region,” he said. “We walked to the site of a slide where one had occurred in the past and we discussed the causes.
“We talked about the safety measures that take effect under those circumstances. It was actually very, very informative.”
Hiebert said Transport Canada will review the situation and prepare a response to the constituent for Minister Chuck Strahl to consider.
Hiebert – who said he met personally with the concerned resident a couple days ago – will be sent a copy of the correspondence.
“I look forward to hearing from the department and from the minister as to what they have to say about the issue.”
Hiebert said he was impressed by the measures in place to mitigate risks.
“At the same time, if there are ways to make the rail line safer, I also welcome any ideas or suggestions that people have.”
