GO service set to return
By Chris Simon

GO train service between Barrie and Bradford will be returning on Monday.

GO train service will be returning to Barrie Monday morning, and there are a few things Innisfil residents need to remember, says one official.

The service will run passengers between Barrie and Toronto's Union Station four times each morning and evening, and includes stops in Bradford, East Gwillimbury, Newmarket, Aurora, King City and Maple among others. Trains will depart from the Barrie South Station, located on Yonge Street near Mapleview Drive, between 5:43 and 7:15 a.m., and will arrive back between 5:45 and 7:35 p.m. The commute will take about 1.5 hours.

But drivers and pedestrians also need to remain vigilant around train tracks. There are over 20 road crossings between Barrie and Bradford. But each year across Ontario, there are several near collisions with trains, vehicles and pedestrians, said GO system safety officer Steve Harvey.

"The train is back Monday morning," he said. "They're back on regular service. We think it's a better alternative than driving down Highway 400 at this time of year. But regardless of if you're a pedestrian or a motorist, stay a safe distance from the tracks. It's illegal and extremely dangerous.

Pedestrians should avoid walking along tracks, which are considered private property. Drivers should also slow down at train tracks, and adhere to flashing lights and other safety measures installed at crossings.

During poor weather conditions, motorists should also drive cautiously near tracks, said Harvey.

"(Drivers) still have to use caution as they approach the crossing. Drive for the road conditions and leave yourself the amount of stop time needed," he said. "We have a number of near misses that happen through the years, where motorists have placed themselves on the tracks, a train comes around the corner and it doesn't leave the motorist with many options."

The new Barrie station has parking available for 480 cars. Train tickets and passes will also be available at the new station.

Residents are also invited to attend the station's opening on Sunday, beginning at 12:30 p.m. The event will feature free entertainment, refreshments and a 45 minute train ride.

For more information, call 1-888-438-6646.