St. Thomas rail crossing gets much needed repairs

The First Avenue rail crossing south of Edward Street in St. Thomas was seen being repaired on July 23, 2025. (Bryan Bicknell/CTV News London)

A smooth ride for drivers in St. Thomas, as a bumpy rail crossing gets long awaited repairs.

Work took place Wednesday on the First Avenue rail crossing south of Edward Street. A gap has been filled in and paved over with new asphalt. The work follows intervention from Mayor Joe Preston, who clarified in a letter to residents that road work could not be done until CN rail provided flagging support for the active rail line.

“Let’s clear the tracks on this one; maintaining the rail crossing is a shared responsibility. CN Rail is responsible for everything within the rail line itself, while the City maintains the roadway surrounding the tracks. In order to complete the necessary repairs, both parties need to work together,” said Preston in his letter to the community.

Work was expected to be complete by the end of the day Wednesday.