Light Rail Safety

Operation Lifesaver, Inc. (OLI), a nationwide non-profit public safety program, awarded Hampton Roads Transit a grant in July to promote rail safety and public awareness campaigns.

The grant valued at $20,000 was part of a larger award to 10 rail transit agencies in eight states intended to increase public awareness of transit rail safety and implement safety education projects and campaigns. HRT was able to match a quarter of the funds totaling $26,666 to be used for the campaign.

“These transit agencies will put their grant funding towards campaigns focusing on keeping the public safe when driving or walking near commuter trains, light rail or streetcars,” said OLI Executive Director Rachel Maleh.

We appreciate the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) for its work with increasing visibility and awareness of the rail transit safety grant program. Operation Lifesaver is also very grateful to its safety partners at the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) for providing the funding.

— Rachel Maleh, OLI, Executive Director

The Federal Transit Administration is proud to partner with Operation Lifesaver to support innovative rail transit safety awareness efforts in communities across the U.S. Through these grants and outreach efforts like USDOT’s ‘Stop, Trains Can’t’ Campaign, we are making a difference and saving lives.

— K. Jane Williams, FTA, Acting Administrator

HRT will use its grant to launch public awareness and education campaigns focused on the importance of safe behavior around The Tide.

Marketing & Communications staff will produce educational materials and attend community-based events. They will use portable billboards, platform ads, radio ads, and social media outreach, demonstrating and encouraging rail transit safety among the general public.

The educational campaigns will use OLI-approved materials and logos and be coordinated through state OL programs.