Prince Rupert, British Columbia – January 10, 2024 – The authorities have determined that the proposed CN Main Track Expansion is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

This determination was based on a consideration of the following factors:

• impacts on rights of Indigenous peoples;
• Indigenous knowledge;
• community knowledge;
• comments received from the public; and
• technically and economically feasible mitigation measures.

Mitigation measures taken into account for this determination are:

• Work during low tide conditions within the project-specific work window
• Use of silt curtain and / or other on-site controls, when necessary, to ensure compliance and protect fish and fish habitat.
• Selection of non-ML/ARD producing materials for intertidal infill
• Spill prevention, preparedness and response plans and materials and qualified/trained personnel on-site during construction
• Daily inspections of equipment for leaks
• Environmental monitoring, including water quality monitoring as needed.
• Construction within the Schedule B PRPA parcel would be completed within 3 to 4 days (likely less) using standard construction equipment.
• Mitigation measures for air quality would emphasize the following: use of equipment in good working order that is maintained and operated according to the manufacturer's guidelines, idling of vehicles and equipment kept to a minimum, low-sulphur fuels used for on-site machinery where practicable, and Contractor(s) to visually inspect all vehicles and equipment on a regular basis.
• A preliminary construction environmental management plan has been prepared for the project and will be finalized with the various permit conditions once they are received.
• Disturbance of the existing substrate will be limited.
• Salvage and reuse of suitable riprap colonized with marine life.
• Conduct aquatic life surveys and salvages of working areas ahead of construction. 

The authorities are satisfied that that the carrying out of the project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

Therefore, the authorities may carry out the project, exercise any power, perform any duty or function, or provide financial assistance to enable the project to be carried out in whole or in part.