Saskatchewan increases investment in short line railway infrastructure

By Medicine Hat News on June 27, 2025.

@MedicineHatNews

Short Line railways in Saskatchewan will receive a near doubling of provincial infrastructure funding in 2025, that province announced on June 17.

The increase of $470,000 to 13 regional rail operators brings the government’s share of the Short Line Railway Improvement programs to $1 million, with lines providing matching funds.

Specific to the southwest region, the Great Western Railway (serving Assiniboia to Shaunavon) is allotted $250,000, while the Great Sandhills Railway, serving Swift Current to Leader, will receive $83,000.

Amounts are determined in relation to existing milage.

“Rising material costs over the last three years means that it is now more expensive per mile for railways to maintain their tracks to meet and exceed the safety and performance standards,” said the railway’s association official Rachel Mackenzie.

Funds can be used on track upgrades and expansion, improved crossing surfaces and sight lines, bridge maintenance, track rehabilitations and other projects.

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