The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) today announced that it will award almost $2 million in Railroad Trespassing Enforcement Grants and $207,000 in Railroad Trespassing Suicide Prevention Grants to fund law enforcement trespass prevention activities and educational outreach campaigns aimed at reducing railroad-related suicides on rail rights-of-way. These awards represent the largest single funding announcement made in conjunction with FRA’s National Strategy to Reduce Trespassing, which includes targeted technical assistance, collaboration, and other engagement activities with stakeholders who have a role in preventing trespassing. FRA targeted these grants towards communities and states with a high incidence of rail trespass-related incidents and casualties when selecting the 25 projects in 13 states that will receive funding.
“No mission is more important than saving lives, and FRA is fully committed to supporting states and communities in the collective effort to prevent avoidable tragedies,” said FRA Administrator Amit Bose. “Through these grants, we will deter railroad trespassing and suicide through coordinated responses from a broad range of local organizations specializing in law enforcement, education, and mental health.”
The massive increase in safety funding will aid FRA’s efforts to reduce the approximately 400 trespass fatalities that occur around the country each year, almost all of which are preventable. Rail suicides often involve railroad trespassing as well. From 2016 to 2021, an average of more than 236 people died by suicide within the U.S. rail system each year in addition to at least another 27 individuals injured in suicide attempts annually.
The Railroad Trespassing Suicide Prevention Grant Program aims to prevent these tragedies through three projects that will use targeted outreach and education campaigns. The assistance provided through these outreach efforts may take many forms, including but not limited to, advertising of mental health services, identifying and approaching individuals in need, or other methods to recognize the signs of an individual in crisis. Grant recipients will also use grant funding to devise curriculums and train professionals to better identify and respond to crisis situations. In addition to providing funding, FRA will employ every available tool for addressing suicide prevention by facilitating collaboration among local law enforcement, communities, railroad carriers, educators, and mental health organizations.
The other 22 projects announced under the Railroad Trespassing Enforcement Activities Grant Program will help prevent railroad trespassing by funding hourly wages for law enforcement officers to enforce trespass violations at known trespass “hot spots.” Grant recipients will report their activities and the associated benefits to FRA, augmenting the agency’s data collection efforts and ensuring that these projects support key Departmental objectives, including safety, equity, and inclusive approaches to infrastructure investments.
As FRA implements the Biden Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, projects such as those included in the Railroad Trespassing Enforcement and Suicide Prevention Grant Programs will be vital for ensuring that safety keeps pace with the expansion and construction of new rail infrastructure or services. Other competitive discretionary grant opportunities funded by the legislation, such as the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program and the newly created Railroad Crossing Elimination Grant Program, will also contribute to FRA’s safety goals by upgrading warning devices at highway-rail crossings and/or grade separations such as overpasses or underpasses.
A full list of projects funded by the two grant programs can be found below:
Railroad Trespassing Enforcement Grant Program (Total $1,956,376)
- Hanford Police Department Railroad Trespassing Enforcement Project ($24,077)
Hanford Police Department, CA
- The Hanford Police Department's (HPD) proposed project will fund Railroad Trespassing Operations in the City of Hanford and the County of Kings. Railroad trespassing and railroad safety have been a concern for Hanford on a regular basis. Due to an increasing number of individuals occupying areas near the 6.22 miles of track, unsafe conditions are created for both trains as well as the people who are occupying the areas around the track. Grant funding would allow for officers, along with officers from the Problem Oriented Policing unit, to conduct special operations targeting trespassing law violations along the railroad, thus enhancing safety. BNSF and Amtrak operate within the proposed project area.
- The Hanford Police Department's (HPD) proposed project will fund Railroad Trespassing Operations in the City of Hanford and the County of Kings. Railroad trespassing and railroad safety have been a concern for Hanford on a regular basis. Due to an increasing number of individuals occupying areas near the 6.22 miles of track, unsafe conditions are created for both trains as well as the people who are occupying the areas around the track. Grant funding would allow for officers, along with officers from the Problem Oriented Policing unit, to conduct special operations targeting trespassing law violations along the railroad, thus enhancing safety. BNSF and Amtrak operate within the proposed project area.
- Metrolink Trespasser Reduction Task Force ($112,795)
Southern California Regional Rail Authority
- The Southern California Regional Rail Authority's (SCRRA) proposed project is designed to reduce trespassing and trespasser strikes and related fatalities, in light of the 13 fatal trespass strikes at Project area Hot Spots in 2021, through enhanced direct trespass enforcement to be conducted by SCRRA’s contracted law enforcement agency, Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department (LASD). This grant funding will provide four additional deputies and one sergeant on overtime to conduct 24 trespassing enforcement operations over 12 months along the BNSF/San Bernardino railroad subdivision and the Orange railroad subdivision. These enforcement activities will focus on railroad trespass Hot Spots within 10 cities across three Southern California counties (Orange, Riverside, and Los Angeles).
- The Southern California Regional Rail Authority's (SCRRA) proposed project is designed to reduce trespassing and trespasser strikes and related fatalities, in light of the 13 fatal trespass strikes at Project area Hot Spots in 2021, through enhanced direct trespass enforcement to be conducted by SCRRA’s contracted law enforcement agency, Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department (LASD). This grant funding will provide four additional deputies and one sergeant on overtime to conduct 24 trespassing enforcement operations over 12 months along the BNSF/San Bernardino railroad subdivision and the Orange railroad subdivision. These enforcement activities will focus on railroad trespass Hot Spots within 10 cities across three Southern California counties (Orange, Riverside, and Los Angeles).
- Riverside Trespassing Enforcement ($24,520)
City of Riverside, CA
- The Riverside Police Department's (RPD) proposed project will create the Trespasser Reduction Task Force (TRTF). TRTF will consist of up to four officers and one sergeant to patrol railways and rail crossings throughout Riverside. RPD will use data driven, real time information to assist RPD with locating railroad trespassers. The TRTF will operate over the course of one year with goals of direct enforcement to cite and arrest trespassers in identified railroad trespassing hot spots, investigate trespasser reports, coordinate homeless encampment cleanup and outreach with City of Riverside Code Enforcement, Office of Homeless Solutions, along with the appropriate rail authority. The railways within Riverside supporting the project include BNSF, Union Pacific, Metrolink, Riverside County Transportation Committee, and Amtrak.
- The Riverside Police Department's (RPD) proposed project will create the Trespasser Reduction Task Force (TRTF). TRTF will consist of up to four officers and one sergeant to patrol railways and rail crossings throughout Riverside. RPD will use data driven, real time information to assist RPD with locating railroad trespassers. The TRTF will operate over the course of one year with goals of direct enforcement to cite and arrest trespassers in identified railroad trespassing hot spots, investigate trespasser reports, coordinate homeless encampment cleanup and outreach with City of Riverside Code Enforcement, Office of Homeless Solutions, along with the appropriate rail authority. The railways within Riverside supporting the project include BNSF, Union Pacific, Metrolink, Riverside County Transportation Committee, and Amtrak.
- City of San Bernardino Operation Safe Rails II ($120,000)
City of San Bernardino, CA
- The San Bernardino Police Department's (SBPD) proposed project will continue to capitalize on the education, experience, and success of the original Operation Safe Rails program to gather data and increase awareness of the dangers of trespassing on railroad tracks while reducing the occurrence. SBPD will use several data elements to identify vulnerable locations and pedestrian behaviors that are likely to contribute to trespass-related injuries or deaths along 30 miles of track and enforce the appropriate laws to discourage and change those behaviors in San Bernardino. The Department has a workforce prepared to immediately begin Operation Safe Rails II upon notification and acceptance of funding. The city is home to the Santa Fe Railroad Depot, which currently serves Amtrak and Metrolink lines, a Metrolink station located in the heart of the downtown area, BNSF Railways, and Union Pacific.
- The San Bernardino Police Department's (SBPD) proposed project will continue to capitalize on the education, experience, and success of the original Operation Safe Rails program to gather data and increase awareness of the dangers of trespassing on railroad tracks while reducing the occurrence. SBPD will use several data elements to identify vulnerable locations and pedestrian behaviors that are likely to contribute to trespass-related injuries or deaths along 30 miles of track and enforce the appropriate laws to discourage and change those behaviors in San Bernardino. The Department has a workforce prepared to immediately begin Operation Safe Rails II upon notification and acceptance of funding. The city is home to the Santa Fe Railroad Depot, which currently serves Amtrak and Metrolink lines, a Metrolink station located in the heart of the downtown area, BNSF Railways, and Union Pacific.
- Broward Sheriff's Office Railroad Trespassing Enforcement Grant ($120,000)
Broward County Sheriff’s Office, FL
- The Broward County Sheriff's Office’s (BSO) proposed project will be a three-pronged approach addressing traffic enforcement, pedestrian trespassing, and a special focus on homeless outreach with an overarching goal of ending train-related casualties. BSO will use FRA funds to conduct enforcement at Hot Spots along the railroad tracks that transverse through Broward County. Special focus will be given to addressing issues of homeless encampments erected in and around FRA regulated tracks. BSO’s Homeless Outreach Team deputies will strive to remove individuals and relocate them to homeless shelters or appropriate behavioral health and social services. The project will have a significant positive impact on the local community and the railway accommodating Brightline, Tri-Rail commuter rail, Amtrak intercity passenger rail, and FEC.
- The Broward County Sheriff's Office’s (BSO) proposed project will be a three-pronged approach addressing traffic enforcement, pedestrian trespassing, and a special focus on homeless outreach with an overarching goal of ending train-related casualties. BSO will use FRA funds to conduct enforcement at Hot Spots along the railroad tracks that transverse through Broward County. Special focus will be given to addressing issues of homeless encampments erected in and around FRA regulated tracks. BSO’s Homeless Outreach Team deputies will strive to remove individuals and relocate them to homeless shelters or appropriate behavioral health and social services. The project will have a significant positive impact on the local community and the railway accommodating Brightline, Tri-Rail commuter rail, Amtrak intercity passenger rail, and FEC.
- Operation Fast Track ($120,000)
City of Hollywood, FL
- The Hollywood Police Department's (HPD) proposed project consists of a 12-month enforcement and educational campaign to maintain a visible law enforcement presence along six miles of railroad mainline track to reduce railroad trespassing in Hollywood. The project is supported by a Hot Spot analysis with data on trespassing incidences along the rail lines and documentation of the trespass problem in Hollywood. If camps are located, the Officers will notify the Department’s Neighborhood Services Unit, who will coordinate with Public Works to effect removal and cleanup of the site. HPD has a strong understanding of rail trespassing challenges based on data from previous Railroad Trespassing Enforcement Grant. The railroads operating in the project area include Florida East Coast Railway, Tri-Rail, Brightline, and Amtrak.
- The Hollywood Police Department's (HPD) proposed project consists of a 12-month enforcement and educational campaign to maintain a visible law enforcement presence along six miles of railroad mainline track to reduce railroad trespassing in Hollywood. The project is supported by a Hot Spot analysis with data on trespassing incidences along the rail lines and documentation of the trespass problem in Hollywood. If camps are located, the Officers will notify the Department’s Neighborhood Services Unit, who will coordinate with Public Works to effect removal and cleanup of the site. HPD has a strong understanding of rail trespassing challenges based on data from previous Railroad Trespassing Enforcement Grant. The railroads operating in the project area include Florida East Coast Railway, Tri-Rail, Brightline, and Amtrak.
- Railroad Trespassing Education and Enforcement Project ($78,157)
City of Jacksonville, FL
- The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office's (JSO) proposed project will conduct enforcement activities, which will include education on the dangers of trespassing on railways; trespass enforcement activities; assisting railroad police on their property, as needed; property checks at rail grade crossings and main rail yards; locating safety hazards on railroad property; and referral services for citizens encountered. A team of four sworn law enforcement officers led by one sergeant will perform deployments in the Hot Spot, which is within JSO’s jurisdiction. The JSO has a strong understanding of rail trespassing challenges with a plan for educational and enforcement activities in the community. Railroads operating in the proposed project area are Norfolk Southern, CSX Transportation, Florida East Coast Railway, and St. Johns River Terminal Railroad (a subsidiary of Norfolk Southern).
- The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office's (JSO) proposed project will conduct enforcement activities, which will include education on the dangers of trespassing on railways; trespass enforcement activities; assisting railroad police on their property, as needed; property checks at rail grade crossings and main rail yards; locating safety hazards on railroad property; and referral services for citizens encountered. A team of four sworn law enforcement officers led by one sergeant will perform deployments in the Hot Spot, which is within JSO’s jurisdiction. The JSO has a strong understanding of rail trespassing challenges with a plan for educational and enforcement activities in the community. Railroads operating in the proposed project area are Norfolk Southern, CSX Transportation, Florida East Coast Railway, and St. Johns River Terminal Railroad (a subsidiary of Norfolk Southern).
- PBSO Strategy for Reducing Railroad Trespassing ($120,000)
Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, FL
- The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office's (PBSO) proposed project will address railroad trespassing in the City of Lake Worth, through enforcement activities and community awareness. For this project, enforcement will be conducted near the identified trespassing Hot Spots during peak trespass days/hours, as evidenced by supporting historical trespass data, information obtained through cameras strategically located in and around the railways, and data obtained through drone technology. Community awareness will also be provided by enforcement signage in English and Spanish near the railroad trespassing Hot Spot locations. PBSO has a strong understanding of rail trespassing challenges with a plan for activities specific to the circumstances in the community that includes innovative enforcement tactics through the use of drones. The project will have a significant positive impact on the local community and the railway accommodating Tri-Rail commuter rail, Amtrak intercity passenger rail, and CSX freight trains.
- The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office's (PBSO) proposed project will address railroad trespassing in the City of Lake Worth, through enforcement activities and community awareness. For this project, enforcement will be conducted near the identified trespassing Hot Spots during peak trespass days/hours, as evidenced by supporting historical trespass data, information obtained through cameras strategically located in and around the railways, and data obtained through drone technology. Community awareness will also be provided by enforcement signage in English and Spanish near the railroad trespassing Hot Spot locations. PBSO has a strong understanding of rail trespassing challenges with a plan for activities specific to the circumstances in the community that includes innovative enforcement tactics through the use of drones. The project will have a significant positive impact on the local community and the railway accommodating Tri-Rail commuter rail, Amtrak intercity passenger rail, and CSX freight trains.
- Tampa Police Department Trespassing Prevention Program ($55,587)
City of Tampa, FL
- The Tampa Police Department's (TPD) proposed project will address trespassing along 55 miles of CSX railroad right-of-way in Tampa, through enforcement and education activities. During enforcement action, when applicable, homeless liaison law enforcement officials will provide information about community resources that address homelessness, substance abuse, and mental health care. The CSX tracks within Tampa have multiple points of entry where trespassing and other criminal activity occur. According to CSX Transportation, from January 2020 through October 2021, 17 trespass warnings were issued, one trespasser committed suicide, one trespasser was injured, two trespass arrests were made, and four fatalities occurred as a result of trespassing and one homicide on their rail right of way within Tampa. TPD has a strong understanding of rail trespassing challenges based on data from previous Railroad Trespassing Enforcement grant in 2020, where 106 individuals were issued trespass warnings from CSX property.
- The Tampa Police Department's (TPD) proposed project will address trespassing along 55 miles of CSX railroad right-of-way in Tampa, through enforcement and education activities. During enforcement action, when applicable, homeless liaison law enforcement officials will provide information about community resources that address homelessness, substance abuse, and mental health care. The CSX tracks within Tampa have multiple points of entry where trespassing and other criminal activity occur. According to CSX Transportation, from January 2020 through October 2021, 17 trespass warnings were issued, one trespasser committed suicide, one trespasser was injured, two trespass arrests were made, and four fatalities occurred as a result of trespassing and one homicide on their rail right of way within Tampa. TPD has a strong understanding of rail trespassing challenges based on data from previous Railroad Trespassing Enforcement grant in 2020, where 106 individuals were issued trespass warnings from CSX property.
- Brunswick Railroad Trespass Initiative ($77,000)
Town of Brunswick, ME
- The Brunswick Police Department (BPD) proposes to use foot patrol, CCTV cameras, unmanned aerial systems (UAS, commonly referred to as “drones”), and Geographic Information System (GIS) spatial analysis to determine railroad trespassing Hot Spots along with contributing factors of those who trespass. BPD proposes to implement a blended approach of drone technology and foot patrols to locate and identifying railroads trespassers. BPD will develop a rail trespassing enforcement program to share, train, and/or assist local and neighboring law enforcement agencies on implementing a response strategy using drone monitoring as well as trespassing countermeasures and develop a model for building effective problem-solving partnerships with local law enforcement, community stakeholders, and local governments. BPD has a strong understanding of rail trespassing challenges based on previous partnerships with FRA to develop and real-world test railroad trespassing countermeasures. Railroads operating in proposed project area are Pan Am, Amtrak and the State of Maine Railroad.
- The Brunswick Police Department (BPD) proposes to use foot patrol, CCTV cameras, unmanned aerial systems (UAS, commonly referred to as “drones”), and Geographic Information System (GIS) spatial analysis to determine railroad trespassing Hot Spots along with contributing factors of those who trespass. BPD proposes to implement a blended approach of drone technology and foot patrols to locate and identifying railroads trespassers. BPD will develop a rail trespassing enforcement program to share, train, and/or assist local and neighboring law enforcement agencies on implementing a response strategy using drone monitoring as well as trespassing countermeasures and develop a model for building effective problem-solving partnerships with local law enforcement, community stakeholders, and local governments. BPD has a strong understanding of rail trespassing challenges based on previous partnerships with FRA to develop and real-world test railroad trespassing countermeasures. Railroads operating in proposed project area are Pan Am, Amtrak and the State of Maine Railroad.
- Fitchburg Railroad Trespassing Enforcement Program ($42,892)
City of Fitchburg, MA
- The Fitchburg Police Department's (FPD) proposed project will allow officers to undertake Hot Spot enforcement activities at, along, and around FRA regulated railroad tracks in Fitchburg. Enforcement activities will be done on an overtime basis and will include investigating incidents or reports of trespassing. Warnings, arrests, or citations will be issued to trespassers for violating rail-related trespass laws. Enforcement activities will be primarily conducted in the area along the railroad tracks from about Bemis Road to Boulder Drive. FPD has detailed documentation and data on its trespassing problem, particularly at its identified Hot Spots. Over the past 10 years in Fitchburg, nearly a dozen people have died or have been seriously injured because of railroad trespassing, and homeless encampments along the railroad tracks within the city continue risks of trespassing. FPD has a strong understanding of rail trespassing challenges based on data from previous Railroad Trespassing Enforcement Grant. The railroads operating in this area include Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), Pan-Am, and Amtrak.
- The Fitchburg Police Department's (FPD) proposed project will allow officers to undertake Hot Spot enforcement activities at, along, and around FRA regulated railroad tracks in Fitchburg. Enforcement activities will be done on an overtime basis and will include investigating incidents or reports of trespassing. Warnings, arrests, or citations will be issued to trespassers for violating rail-related trespass laws. Enforcement activities will be primarily conducted in the area along the railroad tracks from about Bemis Road to Boulder Drive. FPD has detailed documentation and data on its trespassing problem, particularly at its identified Hot Spots. Over the past 10 years in Fitchburg, nearly a dozen people have died or have been seriously injured because of railroad trespassing, and homeless encampments along the railroad tracks within the city continue risks of trespassing. FPD has a strong understanding of rail trespassing challenges based on data from previous Railroad Trespassing Enforcement Grant. The railroads operating in this area include Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), Pan-Am, and Amtrak.
- Worcester Trespass Prevention Program ($120,000)
City of Worcester, MA
- The Worcester Police Department's (WPD) proposed project will conduct railroad education and enforcement activities at Hot Spot locations along railroad rights of way that operate within Worcester. Guided by local information, crime statistics, and effective community response, the Worcester Trespass Prevention Program is a 26-week program of law enforcement patrols roughly from May 1 through October 31, when seasonal weather conditions in the Northeast are more favorable and the community is often outdoors. By increasing the number and frequency of law enforcement patrols and fines within railroad trespassing Hot Spot locations, law enforcement will give attention to trouble areas, improve safety, and quality of life, mitigate risks of railroad trespassing, and increase awareness, knowledge, and perceptions about railroad trespassing. Overall, the project will improve safety through enforcement-based activities as well as connections with social services. Railroads operating in the proposed project area are MBTA, PW, CSX, and Amtrak.
- The Worcester Police Department's (WPD) proposed project will conduct railroad education and enforcement activities at Hot Spot locations along railroad rights of way that operate within Worcester. Guided by local information, crime statistics, and effective community response, the Worcester Trespass Prevention Program is a 26-week program of law enforcement patrols roughly from May 1 through October 31, when seasonal weather conditions in the Northeast are more favorable and the community is often outdoors. By increasing the number and frequency of law enforcement patrols and fines within railroad trespassing Hot Spot locations, law enforcement will give attention to trouble areas, improve safety, and quality of life, mitigate risks of railroad trespassing, and increase awareness, knowledge, and perceptions about railroad trespassing. Overall, the project will improve safety through enforcement-based activities as well as connections with social services. Railroads operating in the proposed project area are MBTA, PW, CSX, and Amtrak.
- DPD’s Railroad Trespassing Enforcement Program ($114,348)
Dearborn Police Department, MI
- The Dearborn Police Department (DPD) proposes to implement a mitigation strategy to reduce rail trespass incidents. The mitigation strategy will be high visibility and heavy engagement at identified geographical Hot Spots. Dedicated railroad enforcement patrols will identify the concerns much faster than relying on citizen notifications or notifications from railroad personnel, potentially resulting in a tragedy which could have otherwise been prevented. DPD will collaborate with railroads and railroad police. Rail-related trespassing enforcement activities will include investigating incidents and reports of trespassing and providing warnings and citations to trespassers. The one-year performance period program will consist of a team of two officers on 4-hour blocks of overtime three times per week. This equates to 24 hours per week, or 1,251 hours of dedicated railroad trespass enforcement. DPD has responded to over 1,700 railroad related incidents since 2016. The railways within the City of Dearborn are Amtrak and CSX.
- The Dearborn Police Department (DPD) proposes to implement a mitigation strategy to reduce rail trespass incidents. The mitigation strategy will be high visibility and heavy engagement at identified geographical Hot Spots. Dedicated railroad enforcement patrols will identify the concerns much faster than relying on citizen notifications or notifications from railroad personnel, potentially resulting in a tragedy which could have otherwise been prevented. DPD will collaborate with railroads and railroad police. Rail-related trespassing enforcement activities will include investigating incidents and reports of trespassing and providing warnings and citations to trespassers. The one-year performance period program will consist of a team of two officers on 4-hour blocks of overtime three times per week. This equates to 24 hours per week, or 1,251 hours of dedicated railroad trespass enforcement. DPD has responded to over 1,700 railroad related incidents since 2016. The railways within the City of Dearborn are Amtrak and CSX.
- Billings Police Department Railroad Trespassing Enforcement Grant ($120,000)
Billings Police Department, MT
- The Billings Police Department's (BPD) proposed project will focus on railroad trespassing by continuing the Montana Rail Safety Task Force (MRSTF) that was established in 2020 due to funding provided by FRA’s 2020 Railroad Trespassing Enforcement Grant Program. MRSTF utilizes internal, FRA, and railroad data to determine railroad trespassing Hot Spots located throughout Yellowstone County. MRSTF deploys team members to these Hot Spots to conduct enforcement activities. Enforcement activities include but are not limited to trespass enforcement blitz, grade crossing enforcement blitz, and high visibility patrols in partnership with BNSF Railway and Montana Rail Link. BPD has a strong understanding of rail trespassing challenges based on data from previous Railroad Trespassing Enforcement Grant. Railroads operating within this proposed project are BNSF Railway and Montana Rail Link.
- The Billings Police Department's (BPD) proposed project will focus on railroad trespassing by continuing the Montana Rail Safety Task Force (MRSTF) that was established in 2020 due to funding provided by FRA’s 2020 Railroad Trespassing Enforcement Grant Program. MRSTF utilizes internal, FRA, and railroad data to determine railroad trespassing Hot Spots located throughout Yellowstone County. MRSTF deploys team members to these Hot Spots to conduct enforcement activities. Enforcement activities include but are not limited to trespass enforcement blitz, grade crossing enforcement blitz, and high visibility patrols in partnership with BNSF Railway and Montana Rail Link. BPD has a strong understanding of rail trespassing challenges based on data from previous Railroad Trespassing Enforcement Grant. Railroads operating within this proposed project are BNSF Railway and Montana Rail Link.
- Greensboro Police Department Railway Trespass Initiative ($120,000)
City of Greensboro, NC
- The Greensboro Police Department's (GPD) proposed project includes a comprehensive trespass prevention program with directed law enforcement patrols at identified railroad trespass Hot Spots within Greensboro. Greensboro’s railroad trespass enforcement target area encompasses a three-mile railroad corridor in a densely populated area, which was one of five major trespassing locations in the state identified in research conducted by the North Carolina State University, Institute for Transportation Research and Education. Additionally, the patrols will focus on educating the public on the dangers of rail crossings, collecting data on trespassers, as well as enforcing trespass laws. GPD has a strong understanding of rail trespassing challenges based on data from previous Railroad Trespassing Enforcement Grants. In addition to these specific patrols, the ATV officers will coordinate with the department’s Traffic Safety Unit, as well as the department’s Community Resource Officers, and conduct rail safety campaigns where they saturate rail crossings and trespass locations to educate and inform. The railroads operating in the project area include Norfolk Southern and Amtrak.
- The Greensboro Police Department's (GPD) proposed project includes a comprehensive trespass prevention program with directed law enforcement patrols at identified railroad trespass Hot Spots within Greensboro. Greensboro’s railroad trespass enforcement target area encompasses a three-mile railroad corridor in a densely populated area, which was one of five major trespassing locations in the state identified in research conducted by the North Carolina State University, Institute for Transportation Research and Education. Additionally, the patrols will focus on educating the public on the dangers of rail crossings, collecting data on trespassers, as well as enforcing trespass laws. GPD has a strong understanding of rail trespassing challenges based on data from previous Railroad Trespassing Enforcement Grants. In addition to these specific patrols, the ATV officers will coordinate with the department’s Traffic Safety Unit, as well as the department’s Community Resource Officers, and conduct rail safety campaigns where they saturate rail crossings and trespass locations to educate and inform. The railroads operating in the project area include Norfolk Southern and Amtrak.
- North Tonawanda Police Railroad Trespassing Enforcement Project ($52,000)
North Tonawanda Police Department, NY
- The North Tonawanda Police Department (NTPD) proposes to conduct rail trespassing enforcement activities along railroad rights-of-way in the City of North Tonawanda. The patrols will focus on warm weather months and special events during which there is a higher occurrence of trespassers. NTPD will develop a comprehensive enforcement strategy to address railway trespassing and the related detrimental consequences caused by railway trespassing. NTPD will incorporate data production and targeted enforcement. During each shift for this project, a pair of North Tonawanda police officers will actively patrol the identified CSX railroad property Hot Spots using a combination of foot patrols and utility vehicles. A major strength of the project is a cooperative relationship with the CSX Police Department, which will be beneficial for trespassing enforcement in this community.
- The North Tonawanda Police Department (NTPD) proposes to conduct rail trespassing enforcement activities along railroad rights-of-way in the City of North Tonawanda. The patrols will focus on warm weather months and special events during which there is a higher occurrence of trespassers. NTPD will develop a comprehensive enforcement strategy to address railway trespassing and the related detrimental consequences caused by railway trespassing. NTPD will incorporate data production and targeted enforcement. During each shift for this project, a pair of North Tonawanda police officers will actively patrol the identified CSX railroad property Hot Spots using a combination of foot patrols and utility vehicles. A major strength of the project is a cooperative relationship with the CSX Police Department, which will be beneficial for trespassing enforcement in this community.
- Town of Coeymans Railway Safety Patrol ($15,000)
Coeymans Police Department, NY
- The Coeymans Police Department's (CPD) proposed project is to undertake a six-month trespass prevention enforcement patrol along six miles of trackage that runs through the municipality. CPD will analyze data elements from FRA, CSX, and internal law enforcement database to determine trespassing Hot Spot locations. CPD will deploy officers to hot spot locations and along the railroad rights of way on foot, all-terrain vehicles, and vehicles for 16 hours per week. CPD officers will also monitor known foot paths and other points of ingress and egress to railroad property. A major strength of the project is a cooperative relationship with the CSX Police Department, which will be beneficial for trespassing enforcement in this community. CSX Transportation operates in the proposed project area.
- The Coeymans Police Department's (CPD) proposed project is to undertake a six-month trespass prevention enforcement patrol along six miles of trackage that runs through the municipality. CPD will analyze data elements from FRA, CSX, and internal law enforcement database to determine trespassing Hot Spot locations. CPD will deploy officers to hot spot locations and along the railroad rights of way on foot, all-terrain vehicles, and vehicles for 16 hours per week. CPD officers will also monitor known foot paths and other points of ingress and egress to railroad property. A major strength of the project is a cooperative relationship with the CSX Police Department, which will be beneficial for trespassing enforcement in this community. CSX Transportation operates in the proposed project area.
- Middletown Railroad Enforcement Project Grant ($120,000)
City of Middletown, OH
- The Middletown Police Department's (MDP) proposed project is to improve railroad property safety at high trespass Hot Spots within city limits by using trespassing data elements to direct enforcement efforts. MPD has demonstrated a railroad trespassing issue and highlighted all the locations using Geographic Information System (GIS) spatial analysis to determine railroad trespassing Hot Spots. MPD has identified several locations of homeless encampments along the railroad right of ways that contribute to the trespassing risk. MPD will develop two officer teams that will patrol Hot Spot areas through four-hour patrols. A major strength of the project is a cooperative relationship with the CSX Police Department, which will be beneficial for trespassing enforcement in this community. CSX Transportation operates in the proposed project area.
- The Middletown Police Department's (MDP) proposed project is to improve railroad property safety at high trespass Hot Spots within city limits by using trespassing data elements to direct enforcement efforts. MPD has demonstrated a railroad trespassing issue and highlighted all the locations using Geographic Information System (GIS) spatial analysis to determine railroad trespassing Hot Spots. MPD has identified several locations of homeless encampments along the railroad right of ways that contribute to the trespassing risk. MPD will develop two officer teams that will patrol Hot Spot areas through four-hour patrols. A major strength of the project is a cooperative relationship with the CSX Police Department, which will be beneficial for trespassing enforcement in this community. CSX Transportation operates in the proposed project area.
- Operation KORS (Keeping Oklahoma City Rails Safe) ($120,000)
City of Oklahoma City, OK
- The Oklahoma Police Department's (ODP) proposed project is to improve railroad property safety at high trespass Hot Spots within city limits by using innovative methods to accomplish these goals, including foot patrols, drones, vehicle patrols, interviews, and analysis to identify the root causes of Hot Spots within the city. OPD will use the requested funding to staff overtime shifts so officers can conduct enforcement activities at vulnerable locations. After identifying rail locations in the city that are most vulnerable to trespassing, OPD will direct targeted patrols to address trespassers and safety concerns through enforcement and relocation. OPD has been challenged by having a 24 percent increase in the homeless population in 2020 and a poverty rate that exceeds the national average by 3.3 percent, all of which have been identified by FRA as contributing factors to trespass related injuries and deaths. A major strength of the project is a cooperative relationship with the BNSF and SLWC Railroad Police Departments, which will be beneficial for trespassing enforcement in this community. BNSF and SLWC Railroads operate in the proposed project area.
- The Oklahoma Police Department's (ODP) proposed project is to improve railroad property safety at high trespass Hot Spots within city limits by using innovative methods to accomplish these goals, including foot patrols, drones, vehicle patrols, interviews, and analysis to identify the root causes of Hot Spots within the city. OPD will use the requested funding to staff overtime shifts so officers can conduct enforcement activities at vulnerable locations. After identifying rail locations in the city that are most vulnerable to trespassing, OPD will direct targeted patrols to address trespassers and safety concerns through enforcement and relocation. OPD has been challenged by having a 24 percent increase in the homeless population in 2020 and a poverty rate that exceeds the national average by 3.3 percent, all of which have been identified by FRA as contributing factors to trespass related injuries and deaths. A major strength of the project is a cooperative relationship with the BNSF and SLWC Railroad Police Departments, which will be beneficial for trespassing enforcement in this community. BNSF and SLWC Railroads operate in the proposed project area.
- Lower Makefield Township Police Department Railroad Trespass Safety and Enforcement ($40,000)
Lower Makefield Township Police Department, PA
- The Lower Makefield Township Police Department's (LMTPD) proposed project will provide for approximately 12 hours of proactive police patrol activities each week for one year. Officers assigned to these patrols/details will monitor rail lines and the adjacent property during these directed patrols. Officers locating trespassers will take the appropriate enforcement or referral actions. LMTPD will analyze internal and external data elements to determine Hot Spot locations along the Township’s four miles of rail lines. LMTPD has responded to five rail-related suicides in the last five years. Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority and CSX Transportation operate in the proposed project area.
- The Lower Makefield Township Police Department's (LMTPD) proposed project will provide for approximately 12 hours of proactive police patrol activities each week for one year. Officers assigned to these patrols/details will monitor rail lines and the adjacent property during these directed patrols. Officers locating trespassers will take the appropriate enforcement or referral actions. LMTPD will analyze internal and external data elements to determine Hot Spot locations along the Township’s four miles of rail lines. LMTPD has responded to five rail-related suicides in the last five years. Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority and CSX Transportation operate in the proposed project area.
- Railroad Trespass Enforcement Project ($120,000)
City of Knoxville, TN
- The Knoxville Police Department's (KPD) proposed project will conduct saturation patrols consisting of two-person teams working in four-hour increments along 20 miles of railways within Knoxville. KPD will work closely with the KPD’s Crime Analysis Unit (KPDCAU) to determine time and locations of these patrols. In late 2021, KPDCAU hosted discussions between the Gulf & Ohio Railroad-Knoxville and the Holston River Railroad to identify 18 trespassing Hot Spot locations along the railroad right of ways in Knoxville. KPDCAU will continue analysis current data received through enforcement efforts to identify additional Hot Spots or shift law enforcement activities. KPD anticipates conducting three enforcement operations each quarter, which equates to a total of 12 saturation patrol operations over one year. A major strength of the project is a cooperative relationship with the Gulf & Ohio Railroad-Knoxville and the Holston River Railroad, which will be beneficial for trespassing enforcement in this community. Gulf & Ohio Railroad-Knoxville and the Holston River Railroad operate in the proposed project area.
- The Knoxville Police Department's (KPD) proposed project will conduct saturation patrols consisting of two-person teams working in four-hour increments along 20 miles of railways within Knoxville. KPD will work closely with the KPD’s Crime Analysis Unit (KPDCAU) to determine time and locations of these patrols. In late 2021, KPDCAU hosted discussions between the Gulf & Ohio Railroad-Knoxville and the Holston River Railroad to identify 18 trespassing Hot Spot locations along the railroad right of ways in Knoxville. KPDCAU will continue analysis current data received through enforcement efforts to identify additional Hot Spots or shift law enforcement activities. KPD anticipates conducting three enforcement operations each quarter, which equates to a total of 12 saturation patrol operations over one year. A major strength of the project is a cooperative relationship with the Gulf & Ohio Railroad-Knoxville and the Holston River Railroad, which will be beneficial for trespassing enforcement in this community. Gulf & Ohio Railroad-Knoxville and the Holston River Railroad operate in the proposed project area.
- Houston Police Railroad Trespassing Initiative ($120,000)
Houston Police Department, TX
- The Houston Police Department's (HPD) proposed project will deploy up to four HPD officers patrolling rail corridors in search of trespassers. HPD will determine Hot Spot locations by using statistical data available from the FRA, railroads, and internal databases. HPD will be able to deploy two sergeants and two officers for one eight-hour shift each week to conduct proactive patrols. The schedule will vary based on data received on the most frequent trespassing times and the locations to be patrolled. HPD will conduct ongoing Hot Spot data analysis to ensure officers are effective. HPD will utilize the department’s computerized warning tracking system, dispatch system, report writing system, departmental cell phones, and body camera database, along with officers in the field to quickly determine the severity of the offense committed by the violator. Repeated violators may be subject to enhanced enforcement actions. HPD will deploy as necessary all-terrain vehicles, canine units, and aerial support craft to access difficult areas along the railroad rights-of-way. A major strength of the project is the ability to analyze real-time enforcement efforts and adjust accordingly, which will be beneficial for trespassing enforcement in this community.
- The Houston Police Department's (HPD) proposed project will deploy up to four HPD officers patrolling rail corridors in search of trespassers. HPD will determine Hot Spot locations by using statistical data available from the FRA, railroads, and internal databases. HPD will be able to deploy two sergeants and two officers for one eight-hour shift each week to conduct proactive patrols. The schedule will vary based on data received on the most frequent trespassing times and the locations to be patrolled. HPD will conduct ongoing Hot Spot data analysis to ensure officers are effective. HPD will utilize the department’s computerized warning tracking system, dispatch system, report writing system, departmental cell phones, and body camera database, along with officers in the field to quickly determine the severity of the offense committed by the violator. Repeated violators may be subject to enhanced enforcement actions. HPD will deploy as necessary all-terrain vehicles, canine units, and aerial support craft to access difficult areas along the railroad rights-of-way. A major strength of the project is the ability to analyze real-time enforcement efforts and adjust accordingly, which will be beneficial for trespassing enforcement in this community.
- The South Florida Rail Corridor Railroad Suicide Prevention Education and Outreach Campaign Project ($56,500)
South Florida Regional Transportation Authority
- The South Florida Regional Transportation Authority's (SFRTA) proposed project will address railroad-related suicides and trespassing on the South Florida Rail Corridor (SFRC) in the tri-county areas of Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade counties. The grant funds will be used to provide a public education and outreach campaign program for suicide prevention in conjunction with mental health professionals and local law enforcement agencies. The Project will aim to develop a sustainable outreach program to be used as a template and tailored to the specific issues within the region. SFRTA will partner with 211 Palm Beach/Treasure Coast (211), a private nonprofit 501(c)3 agency that was started in 1971 in Palm Beach County as a drug hotline and quickly expanded into crisis counseling and suicide prevention. The training concepts to be used during an encounter will be to identify potential suicidal victims and increase SFRTA staff and local law enforcement’s psychological knowledge and confidence in preventing suicides. The project will have a significant positive impact on the local community and railway accommodating multiple users. Railroads that operate within the proposed project area are Amtrak intercity passenger trains, CSX freight trains, and Tri-Rail commuter trains.
- The South Florida Regional Transportation Authority's (SFRTA) proposed project will address railroad-related suicides and trespassing on the South Florida Rail Corridor (SFRC) in the tri-county areas of Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade counties. The grant funds will be used to provide a public education and outreach campaign program for suicide prevention in conjunction with mental health professionals and local law enforcement agencies. The Project will aim to develop a sustainable outreach program to be used as a template and tailored to the specific issues within the region. SFRTA will partner with 211 Palm Beach/Treasure Coast (211), a private nonprofit 501(c)3 agency that was started in 1971 in Palm Beach County as a drug hotline and quickly expanded into crisis counseling and suicide prevention. The training concepts to be used during an encounter will be to identify potential suicidal victims and increase SFRTA staff and local law enforcement’s psychological knowledge and confidence in preventing suicides. The project will have a significant positive impact on the local community and railway accommodating multiple users. Railroads that operate within the proposed project area are Amtrak intercity passenger trains, CSX freight trains, and Tri-Rail commuter trains.
- MBTA Suicide Trespass Prevention Project ($100,000)
Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority
- The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority's (MBTA) proposed project will engage specific stakeholders and relevant communities to help reduce the occurrence of trespasser suicide by increasing employee awareness and intervention skills through employee training activities. The proposed project will be directed by a steering committee currently in place at MBTA, entitled the Commuter Rail Collision Resource Committee (CRCRC), over a 12-month period and implemented by the MBTA with the support of the Samaritans, Inc. nonprofit and other expert psychologists and specialists skilled in training mental health professionals and working with the transportation industry. The proposed project will address trespass suicide on the MBTA system by conducting training and outreach with key railroad staff, first responders, and selected representatives of local community agencies. The targeted groups will be railroad staff, first responders, and other key stakeholders and community agencies impacted by railroad trespassers at risk for intentional self-harm. Training materials will be developed for both in-person and online training programs and for a train the trainer framework. The project will have a significant positive impact on the local community and the railway accommodating MBTA and the Greater Boston area. Railroads operating within this proposed project area are MBTA Commuter Rail, Amtrak, GWRR/PW Railways, Pan-Am Railways, CSX, and MA Costal Railroad.
- The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority's (MBTA) proposed project will engage specific stakeholders and relevant communities to help reduce the occurrence of trespasser suicide by increasing employee awareness and intervention skills through employee training activities. The proposed project will be directed by a steering committee currently in place at MBTA, entitled the Commuter Rail Collision Resource Committee (CRCRC), over a 12-month period and implemented by the MBTA with the support of the Samaritans, Inc. nonprofit and other expert psychologists and specialists skilled in training mental health professionals and working with the transportation industry. The proposed project will address trespass suicide on the MBTA system by conducting training and outreach with key railroad staff, first responders, and selected representatives of local community agencies. The targeted groups will be railroad staff, first responders, and other key stakeholders and community agencies impacted by railroad trespassers at risk for intentional self-harm. Training materials will be developed for both in-person and online training programs and for a train the trainer framework. The project will have a significant positive impact on the local community and the railway accommodating MBTA and the Greater Boston area. Railroads operating within this proposed project area are MBTA Commuter Rail, Amtrak, GWRR/PW Railways, Pan-Am Railways, CSX, and MA Costal Railroad.
- Expansion of Trespassing and Suicide Prevention Initiatives ($50,500)
New York - Metropolitan Transportation Authority
- The Metropolitan Transportation Authority's (MTA) will use this funding to expand its current trespassing and suicide prevention mitigation efforts to include all 125 stations throughout the Long Island Railroad (LIRR) system and by working in partnership with the New York State Office of Mental Health (NYS OMH) Suicide Prevention Center of New York (SPCNY) to develop and pilot a customized Gatekeepers to Hope suicide intervention training program for public-facing Stations Department personnel. SPCNY will work with LIRR Corporate Safety to customize their existing Gatekeepers to Hope training program to incorporate the unique characteristics of the railroad operating environment and LIRR Stations personnel. The applicant will develop a customized curriculum focused on identifying vulnerable individuals and utilizing supportive intervention techniques and will pilot test the customized training with Stations Department Management and Corporate Safety Department personnel. SPCNY will then conduct a comprehensive “train the trainer” program to develop the capacity of Stations Management to conduct the training independently as well as for selected Corporate Safety Department employees. The project will have a significant positive impact on the local community and the railway accommodating LIRR.
