Letter to the Editor : Warning lights to save lives
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If you’ve ever travelled on Bass Lake Rd. or attended the Bass Lake Resort, you will know what I’m talking about.
Railroad Crossing Safety is an issue on Bass Lake Rd.
Safety is a concern at this crossing due to the following:
- Railroad approaches road on a narrow angle, cutting the line of site for motorists.
- Crossing is also on an incline, reducing visibility for motorists exiting Bass Lake Rd.
- Railroad has a 90 Degree turn a few hundred meters from the crossing, such that motorists cannot see the approaching train until it is very close.
- Snow accumulation in the winter further compromises visibility.
- Crossing is located in the middle of a campground where unsuspecting visitors, unfamiliar with the area/crossing travel in summer months.
- Crossing is currently equipped with only stop signs and railroad crossing signs.
In light of National Rail Safety Week, April 27th to May 3rd, I’m hoping to raise public awareness of this potential hazard. Why wait for another railroad crossing fatality in Timiskaming District, before installing railway crossing warning lights on Bass Lake Rd?
Having had myself a very close call with the ONR train one morning, my goal is to prevent an accident by giving a voice to a safety issue that has gone unresolved since the installation of a rail line across an existing Bass Lake logging road.
Given the amount of Northern Natural Resources being transported via railroad, where profits are generated for both the ONR and the end users, surely there are funds available to protect the lives of all motorists who cross the railroad.
Respectfully,
Julie Buffam, CPA, CA
Bass Lake Rd. Resident
