Canadian Pacific Railway must consult with the Moose Jaw Radio Control Aircraft Club before constructing a communication antenna structure in its railyard. 

The motion passed unanimously by Moose Jaw City Council on Monday night. 

Coun. Brian Swanson raised the concern. 

“I’d asked about if there is potential for interference with the Moose Jaw radio control flying club that has an airstrip down there and operates their airplanes with a radio frequency,” Swanson said.  

“I wouldn’t want the locomotives taking off or plummeting into the ground or anything like that.” 

While communication antennas are regulated by Industry Canada, representatives for Canadian Pacific said council can ask for more consultations. 

Shown is the proposed location for Canadian Pacific Railway communication antenna tower. (Photo by Shawn Slaght)

“Obviously Canadian Pacific has quite a number of radio towers throughout Canada so they have to comply with the standards and guidelines, but if council would like for Canadian Pacific to follow up with the other radio frequencies in the area that is something we can do,” said Sarah Cruise from Golder and Associates, representing Canadian Pacific. 

The structure would consist of a 61-foot wood pole and a 14-foot antenna to be used for the remote control of locomotives. 

The structure will be located on the fringe of the railyard on the southwest side of the city. 

The city had already put out a public notice and received no feedback.

City administration is also asking for screening or landscaping around the structure such as hedges, trees or fencing because of the proximity to the city’s walking trail.