(The following story by Cathy Woodruff appeared on the Albany Times-Union website on July 26.)
RENSSELAER, N.Y. — An estimated 150 police officers, public officials and traffic safety advocates climbed aboard Wednesday for a special train ride spotlighting the dangers for motorists and pedestrians who fail to exercise caution near rail tracks.
This year, the passengers aboard the annual Operation Lifesaver Special Law Enforcement Train, which traveled between Rensselaer and Utica, included state Motor Vehicles Commissioner David J. Swarts, who urged drivers to heed warnings and watch out for trains.
“Motorists often attempt to beat trains at rail crossings, risking deadly consequences,” Swarts said. “Motorists are generally unaware that trains are moving more quickly than they appear and cannot stop as quickly as motor vehicles.”
The event was organized by Charles Alonge Jr., the longtime coordinator for Operation Lifesaver in New York State, who is planning to retire this summer, said Richard Stack, general manager of the Albany Port Railroad and statewide president of Operation Lifesaver.
Stack said there is a resurgence of concern in the Capital Region about pedestrians who trespass on railroad property, including children who simply do not realize the dangers of a fast-moving train.
“People have built houses closer to the tracks,” Stack said. “For children, there’s a natural curiosity. The perception is the train is going slower than you think.”
Others participating in the informational event and train ride, chiefly designed for police officers, included officials of Amtrak, CSX Railroad, school bus operators and the trucking industry.