Longer delays expected as train traffic doubles at five Saskatoon intersections

Motorists can expect longer traffic delays at five Saskatoon railway crossings as the number of trains using some city lines doubles over the next few weeks. 

Canadian National Railway (CN) is increasing train activity along a rail line from the northern city limits to a rail yard in the city's southwest. 

• City looks at underpasses as way to relieve railway traffic headaches in Saskatoon
• City of Saskatoon continues to deal with railway delays

Five trains will be rerouted through Saskatoon daily because of construction on other rail lines outside the City of Saskatoon, which issued an alert about the delays on Thursday. 

According to a statement from the City, the trains using this line will also be almost twice as long as usual.

Traffic delays are expected to last between five and 10 minutes as the trains travel south over the following intersections:

• 71st Street
• Marquis Drive
• 51st Street
• 33rd Street
• 11th Street

The trains will slow down as they approach 11th Street to change tracks. Saskatoon Transit may also experience some delays on Route 9 and its service to the north industrial area. Specific times for the trains are not available. 

In December last year, the City of Saskatoon announced it was looking at underpasses at six crossings as a way to cut back congestion from train delays.

The City of Saskatoon said it was working with railway companies to minimize delays at key rail crossing in Saskatoon.