RTD to observe Rail Safety Week with community outreach and education
The Regional Transportation District (RTD) is joining communities across North America recognizing Rail Safety Week. This year’s campaign takes place Sept. 15-20 and serves as an important reminder that safety around railroad crossings and train tracks is everyone’s responsibility.
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 2016, there have been 1,503 rail-related accidents reported in Colorado, including 108 fatalities. Every preventable death remains one too many.
RTD operates a total of 10 rail lines, including six commuter rail and four light 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 as 79 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.
To keep rail safety top of mind, RTD staff will be at stations throughout the week to answer questions and connect with customers:
Peoria Station – Monday, Sept. 15, 7-9 a.m.
Central Park Station – Tuesday, Sept. 16, 7-9 a.m.
I-25 & Broadway Station – Wednesday, Sept. 17, 7-9 a.m.
Olde Town Arvada Station – Wednesday, Sept. 17, 3-5 p.m.
Denver Union Station (light rail) – Thursday, Sept. 18, 7-9 a.m.
Denver Union Station (commuter rail) – Thursday, Sept. 18, 7-9 a.m.
Commerce City - 72nd Avenue Station – Friday, Sept. 19, 7-9 a.m.
Throughout the week, digital screens at RTD stations will also display mental health resources. These resources are available year-round stocked as small cards on buses and trains in both English and Spanish.
RTD’s commitment to safety extends beyond Rail Safety Week. 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.
Rail Safety Week is a 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.