NORFOLK, Va. – Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) has won two competitive grants from Operation Lifesaver, Inc. to promote public awareness and safety education along tracks used by the Tide light rail.
One grant, totaling nearly $20,000, is for rail safety education and public awareness. The other amounts to $10,000, funded by the Federal Transit Administration, to develop a campaign encouraging users to complete an online safety pledge.
HRT’s grants from the non-profit organization were awarded through a competitive process, with transit agencies around the nation submitting proposals aimed at reaching drivers, pedestrians, and transit riders.
With the grant funding, HRT plans to create and launch multi-media communications campaigns, including digital advertising, public outreach, safety events, and updated signage focusing on the 7.4-mile-long track in Norfolk.
The Tide’s route has 26 rail crossings, with trains operating on embedded tracks downtown that share space with vehicles and pedestrians. Some of the targeted locations include the Scope Arena and Chrysler Hall Theater – both with pedestrians near tracks during events.
The campaigns will focus on reintroducing safety messages to multiple audiences.
“Safety is our top priority and the first of our core values. These grants support our ongoing efforts to minimize and reduce any incidents involving the Tide’s tracks. Campaigns created with these grants will help to engage new audiences, including kids, to remind everyone to be alert around tracks.”
William E. Harrell
HRT President and CEO
“Congratulations to this year’s grantees, whose projects will bring targeted, creative public outreach campaigns to their communities for people riding, driving and walking near commuter trains, light rail or streetcars. The continued support of the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) allows OLI to continue sharing the lifesaving rail safety education message with transit riders across the nation.”
Rachel Maleh
OLI Executive Director
For Tide schedules and stations, please visit https://gohrt.com/routes/light-rail/.
About Operation Lifesaver
Operation Lifesaver, Inc. (OLI) is a national nonprofit dedicated to stopping track tragedies through public awareness and education campaigns as well as a national volunteer network that gives free presentations encouraging safe behavior near tracks and trains. OLI supports the efforts of 47 state programs and the District of Columbia in sharing the rail safety education message.
About HRT
HRT’s mission is to connect Hampton Roads with transportation solutions that are reliable, safe, efficient, and sustainable. For more information on transit services, visit gohrt.com.
Media Contact:
Thomas Becher, APR
Manager, Communications
October 31, 2024
Cell: (757) 354-0564
(757) 222-6010