Police Department Announces Annual Rail-Safety Campaign

The Western Springs downtown is, of course, centered around a busy suburban railway—and safety around that railway is a major priority for the Village.

So the Village Police Department has now announced its fifth annual “Police on Board for Rail Safety,” a joint initiative between the Village, the BNSF Railway and Lyons Township High School to promote railway safety and avoid violations, accidents, and collisions.

On Thursday, May 26, the Police Department will be strictly enforcing all safety laws around the Village’s five vehicle and pedestrian railway crossings. The additional enforcement is being funded by the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) and the Federal Railroad Administration.

“Please obey all railroad crossing signals and set the example for other commuters and motorists,” read a release from the Department. “Remember, trains always win—don’t violate warning signals! Looks, listen, live!”

Additionally, one week earlier, on May 19, volunteers from the Village, BNSF and Lyons Township will be distributing safety informational pamphlets at the Village train station.

According to the release, which cites the ICC, 20 people were killed at Illinois railway crossings last year, including 10 pedestrians.

“Western Springs Police would like to remind everyone to proceed across our local grade crossings in a safe and lawful manner,” said the release.