Metrolink Matters Safety is important every day of the year, but every September, we have an extra focus to remind everyone about the importance of safety.
Rail Safety Month was first designated by the State of California in 2009, with the goal of decreasing rail-related incidents.
Rail Safety Month is a time when Metrolink partners with member agencies, law enforcement, Operation Lifesaver and other rail operators to highlight safety at rail crossings and on the railroad rights-of-way through education outreach, enforcement efforts and engineering upgrades.
Metrolink and the LA County Sheriff’s Transit Services Bureau will be out every Wednesday this month from 6 to 9 a.m. to raise public awareness about the dangers of failing to comply with railroad safety laws when motorists are crossing tracks. These directed enforcements will take place throughout our service area:
- Sept. 5: Penrose Street, Shelton Street and Branford Street crossings along the Antelope Valley Line at Sun Valley.
- Sept. 12: Pomona-area crossings on the Riverside Line.
- Sept. 18: Anaheim and Orange-area crossings on the Orange County and Inland Empire-Orange County lines.
- Sept. 25: Simi Valley-area crossings on the Ventura County Line as part of “Operation Clear Track”
- Operation Clear Track is the largest single day railroad safety law enforcement initiative in the U.S. Operation Clear Track is driven by Amtrak Police and Operation Lifesaver. During this event, law enforcement is asked to enforce grade crossing and trespassing laws. Railroad safety pocket cards will be provided to distribute to motorists and pedestrians traveling over these crossings.
- Sept. 26: San Bernardino Line crossings.
We are hosting a Rail Safety Press Event on Sept. 18 at Fullerton Station to focus on the importance of people staying off the tracks and “Stop Track Tragedies.” Speakers include our CEO Art Leahy, Los Angeles County Supervisor Katherine Barger, Metrolink Board 2nd Vice Chair Ara Najarian, Operation Lifesaver California State Coordinator Nancy Sheehan and representatives from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
Metrolink System Safety and California Operation Lifesaver will provide volunteers and take free rail safety presentations to schools, organizations and communities where we operate. Middle schools within 500 feet of railroad tracks are targeted for an interactive “Safety Rally” with props and cheers. High Schools will be offered an hourlong presentation that includes videos and a chance to ask questions while learning about how we have become a leader in safety.
Although Metrolink ramps up for Rail Safety Month every September, Metrolink’s commitment to safety extends beyond September, with a year-round, daily emphasis on safety around trains and train tracks.
Learn more about Rail Safety Month here.
