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Houston Metro pledges safety improvements along light rail system

The safety message comes as Metro finds itself atop a dubious list as the light rail system with the nation's most collisions.

March 14, 2017
Houston Metro pledges safety improvements along light rail system

 

1 min to read


HOUSTON — After two recent fatalities along the Red Line by bicyclists who pedaled in front of light rail trains, Metro and others are looking at fixes to what they concede is a growing safety problem for pedestrians and cyclists, the Houston Chronicle reports.

Trains are going to be repainted to make them more visible. Safety signs will be added, and trains already have started using their horns as they pull into stations. With more time and money, officials are also considering changes to how pedestrians and bicyclists cross the train tracks and local streets.

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The safety message comes as Metro finds itself atop a dubious list as the light rail system with the nation's most collisions. Based on 2016 incidents reported through November to the Federal Transit Administration, Metro led the nation with 31 significant light rail collisions. For the full story, click here.

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