CN Whistle Cessation at Bennett Road and Cobbledick Road
Project background
Since 2019, staff have been working with CN Rail on road improvements and safety upgrades to the warning systems at the Bennett Road and Cobbledick Road crossings, with the goal of enabling CN to implement whistle cessation.
Following the completion of this work, Council passed a resolution in June 2025 formally supporting the cessation of train whistles at these crossings. CN was notified of Council’s decision but subsequently raised additional safety concerns due to recent trespassing incidents on the tracks in these areas.
In January 2026, Council directed staff to proceed with the implementation of additional safety measures, as required by CN, to advance whistle cessation at Bennett Road and Cobbledick Road. Council also gave staff authority to execute any necessary agreements with CN or amendments to existing agreements with CN that are required to implement whistle cessation; and requested that staff continue conversations with local developers to request contributions toward the costs for the implementation of the required additional safety measures.
Latest update
September 2026
Following Council direction in January 2026, the Municipality initiated a public procurement process in spring 2026 to retain a qualified design consultant. The consultant was hired in June 2026 to complete the detailed design for the additional safety improvements required by CN to support whistle cessation at the Bennett Road and Cobbledick Road crossings.
Design submissions have since been provided to CN and other applicable agencies for review. The Municipality and its design consultants continue to work with these parties to address comments and secure the remaining approvals. Subject to the completion of these reviews and approvals, as well as contractor availability, weather, and site conditions, construction of the additional safety measures is anticipated in 2026.
The Municipality will continue to work closely with CN throughout the design and implementation process, including confirming any additional requirements or steps that may be needed following the installation of the safety improvements. The Municipality remains committed to enhancing rail crossing safety and advancing whistle cessation at these crossings and will provide updates as the project progresses.
Relevant reports and information
- PDS-001-25: Whistle Cessation at CN Rail Grade Level Crossings at Bennett Road and Cobbledick Road (progress of work completed)
- Report LGS-020-25: Whistle Cessation at CN Rail Grade Level Crossings at Bennett Road and Cobbledick Road (formal whistle cessation request)
- Report PDS-063-25: Update on Whistle Cessation at CN Grade Level Crossings at Bennett Road and Cobbledick Road
Contacts
Marco Pedaletti
Project Engineer, Municipality of Clarington
905-623-3379 ext. 2441
mpedaletti@clarington.net
Josh Gibson, C.E.T.
Project Coordinator, Municipality of Clarington
905-623-3379 ext. 2319
jgibson@clarington.net
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