In its single largest donation ever, Ridley Terminals Inc. announced on Monday it will be contributing $250,000 to the cause of upgrading five rail crossings in the District of Port Edward.
Long an item of note to the municipality due to train whistle noise concerns to residents, and safety in rail transport, Ridley Terminals (RTI) contributed their portion in a continuous group effort to raise $1.5 million for the total cost of the projects.
Coming a few weeks after Ridley Island-located AltaGas made its positive final investment decision on its propane export terminal, and with AltaGas using CN Rail to ship its propane to its facility, RTI board chair Byng Giraud was happy to make the donation, he stated in a press release.
"Ridley Terminals has been part of the fabric of the community since the 1980s and we are committed to remaining so into the future. This investment in Port Edward is part of that commitment. We are pleased we are able to assist Port Edward and minimize the impact of our increased business through this donation," Giraud said.
Port Edward Mayor Dave MacDonald added that the district's relationship with RTI is an important one.
"Port Edward is very happy with RTI's announcement to support the upgrades of the railway crossings. This project is very important to the quality of life of all our residents and it's great to see industry working alongside our community in ensuring all our needs are met. We look forward to continuing to work together, as well with all our other stakeholders," said MacDonald.
AltaGas' terminal will be designed to ship 1.2 million tonnes of propane per year, the equivalent of 50-60 railcars per day through the rail route's communities, including Port Edward.
Port Edward council also approved more than $700,000 of funding in the district's budget to help meet the $1.5 million mark, and district officials hope to see the project begin before fishing season this year.
The Port of Prince Rupert is also expected to contribute to the project.
AltaGas' Dan Woznow, vice-president of energy exports, was also on hand to make the announcement.
"We support the District of Port Edward in their work to upgrade five of its controlled rail crossings. AltaGas' final investment decision to construct the Ridley Island Propane Export Terminal will bring diversity to Ridley Terminals, while strengthening the local economy. We are pleased that AltaGas' decision to invest in the first propane export terminal off the west coast of Canada has allowed Ridley Terminals Inc. to present this donation," Woznow said.