RTD reminds customers and community to practice safety near trains

DENVER (June 3, 2026) –– The Regional Transportation District (RTD) reminds customers that safety around railroad crossings and train tracks is everyone’s responsibility. The June 7 Service Changes will increase frequency on the B and G lines, the R Line will extend to RidgeGate Station, and a temporary T Line will be added to the southeast corridor – changes that emphasize the need for customers to be vigilant about safety. 

According to Operation Lifesaver, Inc. (OLI), more than 2,100 people are injured or killed in railroad crossing and trespassing incidents each year in North America. In the United States alone, a person or vehicle is struck by a train nearly every three hours.

Since 2017, there have been 1,456 rail-related accidents reported in Colorado, including 100fatalities. Every preventable death remains one too many.

RTD operates a total of10 rail lines, including six light rail and four commuter rail,spanning 114.19 miles of track. To help keep the community safe, the agency is urging the public to make safe choices near tracks and trains. RTD and OLI offer these important reminders:

1. Always expect a train. Passenger schedules shift, and freight trains don’t run on fixed timetables.
2. Never walk on the tracks. It’s both dangerous and illegal.
3. Trains cannot stop quickly. A freight train traveling 55 mph needs more than a mile to come to a halt. Some RTD trains travel as fast as79 mph.
4. Trains always have the right of way. That includes police and emergency vehicles.
5. Trains can travel on any track. That means any direction, at any time.
6. Modern trains are quieter and faster than you think. Don’t count on hearing them approach.
7. Only cross at designated crossings. Obey all posted signals.
8. Stay alert. Avoid headphones, texting,or distractions around tracks.

Click here to watch RTD’s rail safety video.

RTD is committed to safety.Since 2010, the agency’s Partners in Safety program has encouraged employees, customers, and community members to work together to build a safer environment around buses, trains, tracks, and crossings.

Customers and the community are reminder to stay alert, make smart decisions, and look out for one another near trains and tracks. A few simple choices can make all the difference.