RAILWAY SAFETY
In the U.S., a person or vehicle is hit by a train every three hours, according to federal statistics. Highway-rail grade crossing collisions and pedestrian trespass on tracks together account for over 95% of all railroad fatalities, according to Federal Railroad Administration data. These tragic incidents on our railways, though preventable, occur far too often. Danger or risky behaviors can lead to these fatal consequences.
At DDEC, we care about the safety of the public in the rail environment. DDEC works with municipalities, rail service providers, and transportation organizations to help improve safety conditions and communicate safe behavior at rail crossings and along the tracks. Right now, DDEC is pleased to work with the City of West Palm Beach, Florida. With a population of 117,000 residents, this coastal city — the 18th largest municipality in the state of Florida—is experiencing a renaissance. A wave of corporate relocations, historical wealth and population migration, and tremendous interest and investment are making the city even more vibrant. West Palm Beach is home to two railway corridors and four railway service providers: Brightline high-speed rail, Amtrak, Tri-Rail, and Florida East Coast railway. The city is prioritizing the safety of its residents and visitors utilizing its mobility network.
DDEC is working with West Palm Beach to secure federal grants to initiate railway safety projects, such as the elimination of highway-grade crossings. Our team of engineers is assisting with the continued implementation of the city’s quiet zone and review analyses. DDEC is also working to develop a strategic public education campaign to raise awareness of how to stay safe on the railways in the city. This is in line with DDEC’s core values of safe and sustainable infrastructures. Working together, through innovative planning, placemaking, and engineering, we can change the way the world moves, stop track tragedies and save lives.
