Operation Lifesaver announced the recipients of the 2024 Rail Transit Safety Education Public Awareness Grants. 

A total of $146,237 in funding provided by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has been awarded to seven transit agencies for eight projects to promote public awareness and safety education in communities near rail transit lines. These funds will support targeted campaigns designated to educate the public on safe behaviors around commuter trains, light rail, and streetcars.

The grant recipients were selected through a competitive process, with agencies submitting proposals aimed at reaching drivers, pedestrians, and transit riders.

Raising Rail Safety Awareness

Awardees will launch campaigns that leverage a variety of media, including digital advertising, community outreach, safety events and signage in high-traffic areas.

Campaigns will utilize OLI approved safety materials, ensuring a unified message of rail safety education throughout the country.

The recipients of the grants are Dallas Area Rapid Transit, Hampton Roads Transit, Kansas City Streetcar, Long Island Rail Road, Metro-North Railroad, San Diego Metropolitan Transit System, and Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority.

“FTA is focused on keeping Americans safe around transit, including rail transit,” said FTA Deputy Administrator Veronica Vanterpool. “These grants will help communities across the country reach people to help them understand how important it is to pay attention around rails. Our continued partnership with Operation Lifesaver is vital for effective rail transit safety education and outreach.”

Grants range from $11,267 to $20,000 requiring a 25% match from each agency. 

Projects are expected to reach thousands, promoting key safety messages that align with OLI’s rail safety education initiatives.

These initiatives build on OLI’s mission to reduce collisions, injuries, and fatalities along rail transit systems by equipping transit agencies with the tools they need to raise awareness and promote safer interactions with rail infrastructure.