Transport Canada and Environment Canada are currently working in partnership with provinces and territories on the development of an integrated cross-Canada Road Weather Information Systems (RWIS) network. The department will co-fund up to 50 percent of eligible costs relating to the acquisition and installation of environmental sensor equipment for priority stations along the National Highway System. The provinces and territories are expected to pay the balance of the total cost, as well as the ongoing operation and maintenance costs. As a condition of funding, provinces and territories are also required to enter into a data-sharing agreement with Environment Canada.

RWIS are automated weather reporting stations with special environmental sensors embedded in and below the road surface and on nearby towers. These systems collect detailed ‘real-time’ data on weather conditions at and near the road surface, which can assist weather forecasters with the prediction of icing conditions as well as provide critical information to road maintenance crews. Overall, RWIS is an essential tool that can contribute significantly toward the enhancement of winter road safety and travel efficiency, while respecting the environment.

August 4, 2005
Government of Canada and Newfoundland and Labrador to invest more than
$1 Million in Intelligent Transportation Systems

July 14, 2005
Government of Canada and Province of British Columbia to invest over $500,000 in Intelligent Transportation Systems

June 2, 2005
Transport Minister signs contribution agreement with Manitoba for Intelligent Transportation Systems

February 3, 2005
Governments of Canada and Alberta announce contribution agreements for Intelligent Transportation Systems

September 2, 2004
Transport Minister signs contribution agreements with Nova Scotia for Intelligent Transportation systems

September 1, 2004
Transport Minister signs contribution agreements with New Brunswick for Intelligent Transportation systems

August 27, 2003
Transport Minister announces major step towards national Road Weather Information System