A CN work train travels through Drumheller to haul away the tracks CN removed this spring from Hanna to Lyalta.  CN is retaining the right of way, so the Town will be unable to lease the land.

Any ideas the Town of Drumheller had for using the land that held the CN Rail line have been  quashed.
    “I can confirm that CN is retaining the right of way as in the future we may wish to put track back in there. At this time, there will not be any short-term leasing opportunities,” said a spokesperson for CN.
    The Town was interested in developing a walking trail or bike path on the former rail line corridor through Drumheller.
    “It was unfortunate, but that’s what we expected,” said Mayor Terry Yemen.
    Recent correspondence between the Town and CN confirmed CN’s original message of retaining the land, adds the Mayor.
    As for maintaining the rail line’s road crossings, the Mayor said he’s contacted both Alberta Transportation and CN about correcting trouble spots and damage.
    Private crossings, where CN has given permission for a property owner to put in a crossing, still remain the responsibility of the property owner, he notes.
    Weed control and landscaping for the CN lands along the rail line are done by a contractor the Town hires, and then bills CN.
    The Mayor said he understands CN’s current long range plans for the rail corridor are in 15 to 20 years, to put in a heavier gauge track  in order to haul freight.
    When contacted by The Mail for information, CN’s written response stated “We are not in a position to comment further at this point.”

Mom Adrienne Kutney says good-bye to son Shaydon after taking him to his first day of Kindergarten at Drumheller's Greentree Elementary School, Tuesday, September 2.

While back to school means finding classes, getting books and new runners for students. For drivers, it is time to be more cognizant of traffic on the streets, crosswalks and sidewalks.
    Drumheller area students headed back to class Tuesday morning. Staff Sergeant Art Hopkins says this is an important time to remind drivers there is more to be aware of on their morning commute, and after school.
    “People have to be cognizant that wee folk are out and about, and also parents are driving kids, “ said Hopkins.
    There will certainly be more traffic around schools both in the morning and at the end of the day. School busses will also be back on the road, and drivers are reminded to obey bus signals and watch for pedestrians.

Five-year-old Luke Pascut is excited to be attending his first day of Kindergarten at St. Anthony’s Tuesday morning. The classroom was buzzing as parents such as Tammy watched their little one take their first steps into school.

    Towards the last few months of school last spring, the stretch in front of St. Anthony’s School was deemed a ‘school area,’ and while there is no decrease to the speed limit, there is more signage warning drivers to be aware. He said the responsibility also lies with parents dropping off and picking up students to make sure the highway is clear and safe.
    “At the end of the day, everybody wants to be there a 3:10 p.m.,” he said.
    Last school year, parents picking up students were asked to arrive at 3:20 p.m., after the school busses had left the parking lot.
    He said a little pre planning to make sure you arrive on time is important.
    “Be aware, be cognizant, don’t be in a rush and don’t get mad. Take some extra time if you think it may take a little longer, things won’t go as smoothly as usual,” he said.