RAC wants intermodal policy on government agenda

The Railway Association of Canada says that it wants the federal government to create a policy environment so that Canada can move people and goods in ways that are sustainable over the long term.

“Intermodal systems, based on the best features of rail and truck, are the only way to go if we are to have a sustainable transportation system in 2020. It is time for governments to consider rail and intermodal systems as integral to the transportation systems of the future,” said Bill Rowat, President and Chief Executive Officer, in a speech to the Toronto Railway Club.

Rowat said the U.S. has already taken such an approach with their TEA-21 initiatives. The Europeans also include rail as part of their public infrastructure investments.

The RAC has recommended to Transport Canada ways that Canada could create similar opportunities to invest in the public interest and Canada’s future.

“The bottom line is for policy makers to stop thinking narrowly in terms of only roads and highways, and to think in terms of what is possible. Canada’s future really depends on fundamental decisions being made very
soon about our transportation system. Whether we have gridlock and smog, accidents and road rage – or a system where the quality of transportation is recognized as part of our quality of life as Canadians,” said Rowat.