Over the past year, UTA has installed approximately 300 blue signs with emergency contact information at rail crossings. These signs provide drivers and pedestrians with a toll-free emergency number to call if rail crossing gates seem to be malfunctioning, are down for a usually long period of time or if there is a vehicle stuck on or near the tracks.

UTA started installation of the signs early last year and finished in January. There is a sign at every FrontRunner and TRAX crossing on both public and private property. The toll-free phone number on the signs will connect the caller to TRAX or FrontRunner Control, both of which are staffed around the clock. In case of an emergency, rail control personnel can take immediate action to stop trains.

The signs are part of a Federal Rail Administration effort to improve rail crossing safety across the nation. UTA is working with rail safety organization Operation Lifesaver to help educate the public about the signs. If you’re interested in having an Operation Lifesaver presentation come to your workplace, school or organization, visit http://www.olut.usu.edu/contact.