In December of last year, the City of West Palm Beach embarked on an ambitious journey to improve rail safety within its borders. Partnering with DDEC, a dedicated consultant specializing in advanced rail safety policies, the city initiated a series of transformative projects and initiatives that aim to make rail travel safer for its residents and visitors. From ‘See Tracks? Think Train’ campaigns to quiet zones and community engagement, West Palm Beach is taking concrete steps to ensure rail safety remains a top priority.
See Tracks? Think Train Initiatives:
The first step in West Palm Beach’s rail safety journey was the launch of the ‘See Tracks? Think Train’ initiative. This public awareness campaign, often seen in various cities across the nation, is designed to educate residents and commuters about the potential dangers at railroad crossings. By instilling a sense of caution and awareness, the city aims to reduce incidents and fatalities related to railroads.
Eliminating Crossings along South Florida Rail Corridor:
As part of the Safe Systems Approach to rail safety, the City of West Palm Beach has been diligently working on the elimination of crossings along the South Florida Rail Corridor (SFRC). This strategic move enhances safety, improves traffic flow, and reduces congestion. By separating rail and road traffic, the risk of accidents is significantly decreased, contributing to a safer transportation environment.
Notice of Intent for Quiet Zones:
To further enhance safety and reduce noise pollution in the city, West Palm Beach issued a Notice of Intent (NOI) for quiet zones along the SFRC railway, between 23rd St. and 49th St., in the North End. Quiet zones are a vital aspect of rail safety as they aim to mitigate impacts associated with train horns, especially in densely populated areas. However, before establishing these quiet zones, the city is taking a comprehensive approach.
Collaborative Safety Workshops:
The City of West Palm Beach recognizes that ensuring rail safety is a collaborative effort. To this end, they have partnered with the nonprofit organization RISE to conduct a series of safety workshops. These workshops engage neighborhood representatives and the community-at-large to gather valuable insights and input on rail safety measures. The goal is to create a Rail Safety Best Practices framework that benefits not only West Palm Beach but the entire South Florida region.
Public Workshop Kickoff:
The journey toward enhanced rail safety kicked off with a public workshop hosted at RISE headquarters in the city’s North End. Participants from the community were given the opportunity to engage with the DDEC team, who presented information on rail activities in West Palm Beach and discussed potential safety measures. This open dialogue fosters a sense of shared responsibility and empowers the community to actively contribute to improving rail safety.
Securing Grants for Progress:
Earlier this year, DDEC played a pivotal role in helping West Palm Beach secure a $400,000 grant from the Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods Grant Program. This grant will be instrumental in funding various rail safety projects and initiatives. The workshop placed a strong focus on prioritizing these projects and aligning them with the community’s needs and aspirations.
Next Steps and a Promising Future:
With the insights gained from the safety workshop, West Palm Beach is now poised to report back to the City Commission and establish the Notice of Establishment (NOE) for the quiet zones. The journey doesn’t end there, though. The DDEC team is committed to preparing a comprehensive white paper on Rail Safety Best Practices for the South Florida region. This document will serve as a roadmap for safer rail travel across the area, ensuring that the lessons learned in West Palm Beach benefit communities far and wide.
The City of West Palm Beach’s dedication to enhancing rail safety is not just a local endeavor; it’s a commitment to the safety and well-being of everyone who travels through the region. Through strategic initiatives, community engagement, and collaborative efforts with partners like DDEC and RISE, West Palm Beach is paving the way for a safer, more secure rail transportation system. As the city continues to progress, it sets an example for others to follow, proving that when it comes to rail safety, a united community can make all the difference.
To find more information about West Palm Beach Rail Safety, https://ddec.com/wpb-rail-safety/.
