Industry and government are coming together to study train noise associated with port activity on the North Coast.
Consultants will be arriving in the region on Friday to begin collecting data and readings from the noise created as coal cars, container cars and grain cars make their way through Port Edward. The project is expected to cost approximately $37,000 and that amount is being split between the district and four industry partners — the Prince Rupert Port Authority, Maher Terminals, Ridley Terminals and Prince Rupert Grain.
Port Edward chief administrative officer Ron Bedard said the businesses involved were quick to jump onboard.
"Most companies would wait until the study was done before making payment, but three of these companies are already in the process of issuing cheques," he said.
"It shows they are taking our concerns very seriously," added Councillor Dan Franzen.
As well as noise, the consultants will be looking at any coal dust or debris associated with the trains.
The District of Port Edward expects the consultants to report back within a month.