Canada Allocates $33.1 Million to Enhance Supply Chain Infrastructure

Canada has announced a $33.1 million investment to strengthen its national supply chains, funding six key infrastructure projects in Alberta and British Columbia. This initiative, part of the National Trade Corridors Fund (NTCF), is aimed at reducing transportation bottlenecks, improving trade routes, and enhancing economic competitiveness.

Strengthening Supply Chains Through Infrastructure

Canadian National Railway (CN) – Jaleslie Siding Extension Project

Funding: $10 million

Location: Near Kamloops, British Columbia

Objective: Extend the Jaleslie siding from its current length of 7,569 feet to enhance rail traffic fluidity between Kamloops and the Port of Vancouver. This extension is slated to enter service in 2025 as part of CN’s 2024-25 Winter Plan.

NSD Development Corp. – NSD Inland Port Project

Funding: $6.2 million

Location: Terrace, British Columbia

Objective: Develop an inland port facility to serve as a shipping hub for northwestern British Columbia. The project includes constructing road and rail access and transloading facilities for liquid and dry bulk commodities.

Battle River Railway NGC Inc. – Infrastructure Upgrades and Industrial Park Development

Funding: $5.7 million

Location: Forestburg, Alberta

Objective: Upgrade three bridges to Class 1 standards and develop an industrial park, including the construction of 15,000 feet of rail to serve the park. This initiative aims to enhance the operational capacity of the 60-mile railway, a former CN branch line owned by local producers and residents.

Richardson International Ltd. – North Shore Railyard Expansion

Funding: $5 million

Location: North Vancouver, British Columbia

Objective: Expand the railyard by adding 15 storage tracks, realigning existing tracks, and installing new crossovers and turnouts. The project also includes new lighting, fencing, and utilities to improve operational efficiency at the North Vancouver Terminal.

Quasar Platform Inc. – Digitizing Canada’s Rail Supply Chain

Funding: $3.5 million

Location: Nationwide

Objective: Create a digital system for real-time monitoring of railcars and freight. This project involves installing 10,000 GPS location sensors and integrating data to enhance the transparency and efficiency of Canada’s rail supply chain.

IntermodeX Logistics Ltd. – Ridley North Off-Dock and Transloading Expansion

Funding: $2.7 million

Location: Port of Prince Rupert, British Columbia

Objective: Construct a container yard and establish a transload facility to provide off-dock container storage and enhanced transloading capabilities. This expansion aims to support increased trade volumes and improve supply chain resilience.

The National Trade Corridors Fund

The National Trade Corridors Fund plays a crucial role in modernizing Canada’s transportation infrastructure. Designed to enhance capacity and reduce logistical inefficiencies, the program prioritizes projects that alleviate congestion and strengthen supply chain resilience. Since its launch, the NTCF has invested billions in infrastructure modernization, targeting strategic corridors that support domestic and international trade.

By allocating $33.1 million toward these new projects, the government is reaffirming its commitment to long-term economic stability. This funding will ensure that Canada’s supply chains remain agile, competitive, and prepared for future challenges in a rapidly evolving global trade environment.

Beyond improving freight movement, these projects will have significant economic benefits. Modernized infrastructure supports job creation, with construction and maintenance activities generating employment across multiple regions. The expansion of trade corridors will also help businesses reduce shipping costs and increase export opportunities.

Canada is focusing on long-term strategies to keep its supply chains resilient. The federal government is expected to expand the NTCF, funding additional projects that enhance port, rail, and road networks.

The push for supply chain digitalization is also gaining momentum. With platforms like Quasar’s real-time logistics system, businesses will benefit from smarter tracking, predictive analytics, and streamlined freight management. The $33.1 million investment is a strategic step in modernizing the nation’s transportation networks and ensuring they remain efficient, competitive, and prepared for future challenges.

Sources:

• Railway Supply
• Trains

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