The Shadow
RICHMOND, VA (VR) – Tracks are for trains. Walking, bicycling or playing on railroad tracks; train surfing; or trying to rush through closing gates to beat an oncoming train are extremely dangerous and illegal.
From September 21-27, 2026, the State Corporation Commission joins Operation Lifesaver Inc. – a national nonprofit organization dedicated to rail safety education – in raising awareness about the need for pedestrians, motorists, bicyclists and others to stay safe around railroad tracks and crossings. This week is referred to as See Tracks? Think Train Week (formerly Rail Safety Week). It promotes the critical importance of rail safety.
The SCC Division of Utility and Railroad Safety administers Operation Lifesaver’s state chapter in Virginia – Virginia Operation Lifesaver. That chapter offers educational sessions and can be reached by phone at 804-371-1588.
The URS Railroad Regulation section works in concert with the Federal Railroad Administration to ensure the safe operation of railroads within Virginia. Railroad Regulation conducts incident investigations; inspects railroad tracks and bridges to promote the safe movement of freight and passengers throughout the Commonwealth; inspects rail cars and locomotives to ensure compliance with FRA standards; and investigates constituent complaints regarding blocked rail crossings.
Every three hours in the United States, a person or vehicle is hit by a train. Most of these tragedies could have been prevented, according to Operation Lifesaver.
Lauren Govoni, director of the Division of Utility and Railroad Safety, and Virginia Operation Lifesaver Coordinator Tracey Lamb encourage Virginians to remain alert, use caution, and obey signs and signals around railroad tracks. Always expect a train, they advise.
“Rail safety is everyone’s responsibility, whether you’re a pedestrian, passenger, photographer, motorist, bicyclist or emergency responder,” Govoni said. “No matter who you are, always use caution around tracks and trains.”
The SCC joins law enforcement railroad safety partners and other agencies to spotlight See Tracks? Think Train Week. Daily themes for Train Week include commuter and transit safety; crossing safety and professional drivers; trespass prevention; and photographer safety. The SCC website and social media pages will feature potentially life-saving information during See Tracks? Think Train Week.
According to Operation Lifesaver, there has been an 82% decrease in collisions nationwide over the last 50 years. “But there is still more rail safety awareness work to do,” Lamb said. “If your vehicle ever stalls on the track, get out and move away; then call the phone number on the blue and white Emergency Notification System sign located at the crossing or call 9-1-1,” she said.
To learn more about railroad safety and railroad education in Virginia, visit the division’s website or the Operation Lifesaver website.
