The Township of King, in coordination with York Region and Metrolinx, has eliminated train whistles at three (3) grade train crossings along the Barrie GO Line at Station Road, 15th Sideroad, and Dufferin Street. This is in line with the Township’s new By-law Number 2024-051 prohibiting the use of train whistles at specified railway/roadway crossing in King Township, which was approved at the June 17, 2024 Council meeting.
Transport Canada has developed a rigorous process in urbanized areas to provide alternatives to train whistling at a public grade crossing and offer local residents with relief from the noise. The use of new technologies and strategies can replace the need for whistles at certain crossings, when proven effective in maintaining safety.
The new whistle cessation bylaw puts an end to train whistling—the sounding of a whistle or horn—when a train approaches a public grade crossing. It is anticipated the whistle or horn will not be activated on a regular basis, but may be necessary in the case of any immediate safety concerns.
To ensure that public safety remains a priority, new safety measures have been installed at the Station Road crossing to align with current safety measures located at the 15th Sideroad, and Dufferin Street crossings including:
- Pedestrian warning signals with automated active arms
- Tactile walking surface indicators
- Sidewalk signage
- Painted lines across the tracks (to indicate pedestrian pathway)
- STOP bars on the road pavement
- Enhanced signage
- Additional fencing
