Utah Transit Authority FrontRunner test trains will run on the rails between Salt Lake and Provo beginning June 11. Trains will run regularly through the summer and fall in preparation for the FrontRunner South line’s December 10, opening.

Testing Schedule

FrontRunner test trains will run daily on weekdays between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m., but some evening and weekend trips may be required. During testing, FrontRunner trains will reach speeds of 79 mph. UTA asks the public to remember that “any time is train time” and to always expect to encounter a train when approaching a railroad crossing.

The first testing phase will ensure that signals and safety equipment are integrated and functioning properly. This testing phase will be conducted in segments starting in Provo and moving north. Train testing in the Provo/Orem area will begin the week of June 11. In American Fork and Lehi, train testing will begin in early July. Test trains will begin running in Bluffdale, Draper, South Jordan, Murray and Salt Lake in mid-July.

The second testing phase, known as pre-revenue service, will simulate typical daily FrontRunner service and will begin in early August. During this testing phase, FrontRunner trains will run nonstop between Salt Lake and Provo, and trains will run every 30 and 60 minutes throughout the day.

Safety

During testing, FrontRunner trains will sound their horns at railroad crossings. After testing is complete, a “quiet zone” will be enacted that allows freight trains and FrontRunner trains to not have to sound their horns at crossings.

Active signal devices – gates with arms, flashing lights and bells – will be in place at all FrontRunner railroad crossings as well as additional pedestrian safety enhancements. These enhancements include pedestrian channelization devices and additional pedestrian signage. Flaggers will also be present at each crossing during the initial few weeks of testing.

In addition to installing safety components at crossings, UTA has implemented a comprehensive safety outreach campaign that includes billboards, radio announcements and presentations at local schools.  Safety presentations developed by the national railway safety organization Operation Lifesaver have been offered to all schools along the FrontRunner South line between Salt Lake and Provo. In 2012, UTA and Operation Lifesaver Utah representatives have given safety presentations to more than 20,000 students at schools along the line.

UTA’s school safety outreach effort will continue this fall and on an ongoing basis. More information about Operation Lifesaver is available at www.oli.org. To request a safety presentation at a school or community event near you, please call 801-287-2290 or email csaley@rideuta.com.

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