Amtrak, Capitol Corridor, California Operation Lifesaver and Rail Partners Kick Off Rail Safety Train Event in Oakland

Oakland, Calif. – Amtrak, Capitol Corridor Joint Powers Authority (CCJPA), California Operation Lifesaver (CAOL), Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) and other rail partners launched September Rail Safety Month with a special train event in Oakland. The mission is to raise awareness and promote rail safety tips in and around railroad tracks and crossings. 

“The safety of our passengers is our number one priority,” said Managing Director Rob Padgette. “Capitol Corridor is working closely with cities and counties along our entire route to prevent incidents at railroad crossings, especially those between Oakland and Hayward.”  

City officials and representatives from Oakland, San Leandro, and Hayward traveled onboard the train to witness the areas where innovative safety initiatives are most needed.  

“We have come together across the industry to raise awareness and educate the public on how to keep themselves, friends, and families safe near railroad tracks and crossings,” said Amtrak Police Department Inspector Doug Calcagno. “Rail Safety is a team effort. As we continue to grow, the best resource to address track incidents is to come together as one.” 

“No one can do it alone,” said Nancy Sheehan-McCulloch, Executive Director, California Operation Lifesaver. “You can help save lives and stop track tragedies. Share rail safety tips with your loved ones. It takes all of us working together to impact change. Every month is Rail Safety Month.” 

In 2009, the California State Legislature proclaimed and presented the September Rail Safety Month proclamation to California Operation Lifesaver and its rail safety partners. Since then, rail safety partners have joined forces to raise awareness and save lives.  

“Union Pacific cares about the communities we serve,” said Peggy Ygbuhay, Sr. Director, Public Affairs at Union Pacific Railroad. “Rail Safety Month is a great time to reset habits – never try to beat a train and use designated crossings when walking over the tracks. We want everyone to go home safely and won’t be satisfied until we reach our ultimate goal of zero incidents or injuries.” For more community safety tips, visit UP.com/Safety. 

Amtrak, Union Pacific Railroad police, and local law enforcement from multiple jurisdictions participated in the event, both on the train and from the ground. They issued warnings and citations to motorists and pedestrians who failed to adhere to traffic signs and signals at railroad crossings. 

Throughout September, Capitol Corridor, Amtrak and its rail partners will continue to engage in a range of activities to promote rail safety, including public awareness campaigns, educational workshops, and safety demonstrations.