April 29, 2022

RAIL

MOVING AMERICA FORWARD

Railroad Trespass Prevention Summit 

for the Greater Boston Area
2

Monica Shaw - Federal Railroad Administration

Railroad Trespassing Prevention Summit

Since 2004 Michail Grizkewitsch has been a part of the 

Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) Office of 

Railroad Safety as a Railroad Trespassing Program 

Specialist. He partners with federal, state, and local 

government officials throughout the United States to 

establish and implement trespass prevention programs. 

Michail Grizkewitsch - Federal Railroad Administration

As a Transportation Specialist Mrs. Shaw coordinates the 

Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) involvement in 

trespass prevention programs, serves as Project Manager 

overseeing the Operation Lifesaver Inc. Grant, FRA’s Law 

Enforcement Trespass and Suicide Prevention Grant 

Programs. Mrs. Shaw holds a Bachelor of Business 

Administration Degree in Project Management. Mrs. Shaw 

has an extensive career with FRA for 34 years.
8:30 - 9:00 AM

9:00 - 10:00 AM

10:30 -12:00 PM

1:00 - 2:15 PM

2:30 - 3:45 PM

3:45 - 4:30 PM

Session 1: Welcome

Session 2: Data Analysis of Trespassing and Suicide 

Incidents

Session 3: Local Railroad Trespassing Mitigation

Strategies Session 4: Railroad Trespassing Treatments &

Tools Session 5: Public Engagement

Session 6: Federal and State Funding Opportunities

Housekeeping

• Medical

• Fire

• Tripping Hazards

• Breaks

• Lunch

Thank you to our safety partners at the MBTA & Keolis Commuter Rail 

Services for assisting with this summit.

Holiday Inn Welcome from General Manager Nicole Caraglia 
4

Steven Illich

Railroad Administrator, SMT-1

Federal Railroad Administration

Welcome

Over the course of his 22-year rail industry career, Steve has served as a dedicated 

professional continually seeking to improve railroad safety. He has held several operational 

and safety positions with freight and passenger railroads, as well as having an extensive 

career with the Federal Railroad Administration. Steve is now in his second tenue with the 

agency and is currently Railroad Administrator for the Amtrak and Passenger Operations East 

Safety Management Team (SMT-1). His previous FRA titles include Inspector, Operating 

Practices Specialist, Special Assistant to the Administrator, Deputy Regional Administrator 

and Regional Administration - Chicago Region. Steve holds a BA in Sociology from Bowling 

Green State University and a MA in Public Policy and Administration from Northwestern 

University.
5

Welcome

Steven Poftak

General Manager

MBTA

Effective January 1, 2019, Steve Poftak joined the MBTA as General Manager. 

General Manager Poftak, who previously served as the Vice Chair of the Fiscal 

and Management Control Board and as a Director of the MassDOT Board since 

2015, comes to the T from the Harvard Kennedy School, where he was 

Executive Director of the Rappaport Institute for Greater Boston.

Previously, Poftak was Research Director and Director of the Center for Better 

Government at the Pioneer Institute for Public Policy Research. Prior to that, 

he worked at the Commonwealth's Executive Office for Administration and 

Finance, where he managed the $1.3 billion capital budget, prepared the 

state's quarterly cash flow reporting, and monitored non tax revenue receipts. 

Other experience includes service on the Commonwealth's Finance Advisory 

Board and Zero Based Budget Commission.

Poftak holds an MBA from the Olin School at Babson College and a BA in 

Political Science from Middlebury College. He is a Boston resident and has 

children who attend the Boston Public Schools.
6

Welcome

Abdellah Chajai

CEO, General Manager 

Keolis Commuter Services

Abdellah Chajai brings more than 25 years of management experience in 

passenger rail operations to Keolis Commuter Services (KCS), where he 

became General Manager and CEO in December of 2021. In previous roles 

managing transit operations in London and Paris, Abdellah demonstrated 

visionary leadership combined with technical expertise to effectively 

develop successful teams with a focus on innovation and global best 

practices. Prior to taking on leadership of KCS, Abdellah most recently 

served as Managing Director for Keolis Amey Docklands (KAD), the 6th 

busiest light rail system in the UK, which was awarded four operators of the 

year awards during Abdellah’s tenure including the prestigious ‘Passenger 

Operator of the Year’ award at the UK’s National Rail Awards. KAD operates 

a key part of the London transportation network under contract to 

Transport for London (TfL) and achieved both growth and customer 

accolades under his leadership. A native of France, Abdellah began his 

career as a project manager and operations director in several European 

countries and now brings a global perspective to the MBTA Commuter Rail 

operation in Massachusetts. Mr. Chajai speaks six languages and has 

multiple master’s degrees.
7

Railroad Grade Crossing & Trespassing Data

State Fatalities

CA 782

FL 250

TX 245

IL 158

NY 122

Total 1557

Top 5 Trespassing 

Fatality States - 

2017-2021

State Fatalities

CA 194

NY 96

IL 95

NJ 78

FL 72

Total 535

Top 5 States Suicide 

Fatalities - 2017-

2021
8

National Strategy to Prevent Trespassing on Railroad Property

In its report on the 

Fiscal Year 2018 budget, 

the House Committee 

on Appropriations 

requested the FRA to:

• Identify and study 

the causal factors 

that lead to 

trespassing incidents 

on railroad property

• Develop a National 

Strategy

FRA Developed a 

National Strategy, 

focusing on four 

strategic focus areas:

1. Data Gathering 

and Analysis, 

2. Community 

Site Visits, 

3. Funding, 

4. Partnerships 

with 

Stakeholders.
April 29, 2022

RAIL

MOVING AMERICA FORWARD

Highway-Rail Grade Crossing and 

Trespassing Trends
10

Highway-Rail Grade Crossing and Trespassing Trends
11

Local Railroad Trespassing Mitigation Strategies

State Trespass Suicides Total

CT 25 13 38

ME 9 2 11

MA 62 38 100

NH 1 0 1

NJ 78 78 156

NY 141 77 218

RI 4 1 5

VT 2 0 2

Totals 322 209 531

District 1 

Trespassing and Suicides Fatalities

2017-2021

Trespassing Suicides GX

D1 322 209 57

Entire US 2607 1112 1255

Percentage 12% 19% 5%

Comparison 2017-2021
12

Norma Griffiths

Railroad Safety Inspector (GXTP) 

Federal Railroad Administration

Data Analysis of Area Trespassing Events

Norma Jean Griffiths is a Railroad Safety Inspector in the Grade Crossing & Outreach 

Division of the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). She supports the FRA’s HighwayRail Grade Crossing Safety and Trespasser Prevention Programs in District 1 which 

includes New England, New York and New Jersey. Before joining the FRA, she held a 

variety of administrative and safety positions in the legal and airline industries, town 

government and the railroad industry including a brief stint as a dispatcher. Norma has 

been a Member, Chairman of the Board and Acting State Coordinator for Maine 

Operation Lifesaver and sits on the Boards of ME, NH, MA and VT as an advisory 

member. She is a qualified Operation Lifesaver OLAV, Trainer/OLAV Coach and course 

instructor and Traffic Incident Management (TIMs) instructor. She attended University 

College in Bangor, Maine, Basic Railroad Claims School at Lawrence Technological 

University in Michigan along with a variety of safety, OSHA and emergency 

management trainings over her 25-plus year career as a railroader.
April 29, 2022

RAIL

MOVING AMERICA FORWARD

National and Local Strategy to Prevent 

Trespassing on Railroad Property

Presented by: Safety Working Action Team
14

Data Analysis of Area Trespassing Events

Cynthia Delaney 

Asst. Director of Rail Safety 

MBTA

Cynthia E. Delaney is an Asst. Director Rail Safety at 

Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority. She supports 

the Director of Commuter Rail & Ferry Safety at MBTA 

Safety Department. Ms. Delaney has held a variety of 

positions with MBTA and MBCR including Asst. Director of 

Transit Rail Safety, Asst. Chief Train Dispatcher, Train 

Dispatcher and Transportation Safety Specialist. Prior to 

MBCR Ms. Delaney was an Amtrak Train Dispatcher and a 

Fed Ex Operations Manager. Essentially, Ms. Delaney has 

been in the Transportation Industry in some capacity since 

1986. Ms. Delaney has a TSSP in Bus and Rail; she is OSHA 

Safety Certified and has attended numerous rail safety 

education programs and attended Johnson & Wales 

University in the Arts and Sciences program.
15

Data Analysis of Area Trespassing Events

Christopher Harrington

Director of Security/Training

Keolis Commuter Services

Christopher Harrington is the Director of Security & 

Training for Keolis Commuter Services in Boston 

Massachusetts. He has been working in the safety for 

over 20 years, with a combination of emergency services 

and transportation experience. Chris has served as a Vice 

State Coordinator for Operation Lifesaver Massachusetts 

for six years and has worked with the FRA’s Highway-Rail 

Grade Crossing team in implementing the FRA CARE 

model here at the MBTA. 
16

Data Analysis of Area Trespassing Events

Manuel Machado

System Specialist

Keolis Commuter Services

Manuel Machado is a certified Safety and Security Officer through the World Safety 

Organization. Manuel has worked for close to 25 years on the MBTA Commuter Rail System 

with Amtrak, MBCR, and Keolis Commuter Services. While working on the Commuter Rail 

property, Manuel has spent ten years in the Engineering Department and almost 15 years in 

the Safety Department. Manuel’s Current role in the Keolis Safety Department is as a Systems 

Specialist, which includes working with the Engineering Department and grade crossing and 

trespasser safety.
17

Trespassing Casualties – State of Massachusetts 

State of Massachusetts

Trespassing Casualties

2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Total

Fatalities 15 14 7 11 15 62

Injuries 3 4 14 6 8 35

Suicide Casualties 

Fatalities 12 9 12 4 1 38

Injuries 1 1 0 0 0 2

Total Casualties

Fatalities 100

Injuries 37

Massachusetts is 21st in the Nation for most trespassing fatalities.
18

Trespassing Actions – State of Massachusetts 
19

Trespassing Casualties – Middlesex County

Middlesex County Specific

Trespassing Casualties

2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Total 

Fatalities 6 5 3 2 3 19

Injuries 1 1 1 3 2 8

Suicide Casualties

Fatalities 3 3 4 2 0 12

Injuries 0 1 0 0 0 1

Total Casualties

Fatalities 31

Injuries 9

Middlesex County is 51st in the Nation for most trespassing fatalities.
20

Trespassing Actions – Middlesex County
21

Trespassing Casualties – Essex County

Essex County Specific

Trespassing Casualties

2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Total

Fatalities 3 4 1 3 3 14

Injuries 0 1 3 0 0 4

Suicide Casualties

Fatalities 2 3 2 1 0 8

Injuries 0 0 0 0 0 0

Total Casualties

Fatalities 22

Injuries 4
22

Trespassing Actions – Essex County
23

Trespassing Casualties – Suffolk County

Suffolk County Specific

Trespassing Casualties

2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Totals

Fatalities 1 3 0 1 3 7

Injuries 1 0 0 2 2 5

Suicide Casualties

Fatalities 1 0 1 0 0 2

Injuries 0 0 0 0 0 0

Total Casualties

Fatalities 9

Injuries 5
24

Trespassing Actions – Suffolk County
25

Safety Working Action Team (SWAT) 

 Grade Crossing Collisions/Close Calls

Crossing diagnostics where traffic light 

preemption may have been a contributing 

factor

Passive/Active warning device review

Railroad markings 

Emergency Notification System (ENS) 

inspections

ENS Education Films w/FRA, MBTA/Keolis 

and CSX

Grade Crossing and Pedestrian Incursion 

Recommendations 

 Trespasser Strikes

 ~94 Post-Incident assessments to 

date

Exercise the Community Trespassing 

Guide and CARE model

Identify ROW trespass points of entry 

and make recommendations to 

mitigate unlawful access

Team of Railroad Experts and 

Community Stakeholders

CRARC – Commuter Rail Accident 

Reduction Committee
26

Rail Safety Campaign 2022
27

Safety Working Action Team (SWAT) 

 Community Outreach

Grade Crossing Campaign(s) 2019, 2021 & 2022

 Updated 2021 Campaign to include Emergency 

Notification System sign.

 2022 Campaign will run for one month in May 2022

 150 MassDOT Highway Billbords across the State of 

Massachusetts

 All MassDOT Registry of Motor Vehicles Flat Screen 

Televisions

 MBTA Commuter Rail Digital Displays at MBTA’s North / 

South & Back Bay Stations

 On-Line Safety Rail Education

 Safety Working Action Team (SWAT) recommended to 

South Coast Rail Project funding KEA Technologies to 

develop K-12 educational Rail Safety Videos and a 

general public (close captioned) video to be deployed 

via YOU TUBE as early as December 2022

 Pro-active approach to educating all MA communities 

on the Dangers of the railroad is vital to preventing Rail 

Tragedies. 

 Emergency Responder Training (ERT)

 To provide a basic overview of Keolis Operations, 

Personnel, and Commuter Rail Equipment.

 Overview of Hazards on or near the Right of Way.

 Meet Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) 49 CFR part 

239 requirements.

 “Universal Precautions”
28

Emergency Responder Training (ERT)
29

Community Impact – Safety Working Action Team (SWAT)

Day to Day Passenger Impact

EMS Response

Responding Crews – Train Crew/On the Ground Responders/EMS Interaction

Impact

Interaction at After Actions with Actual Trespassers (children with parents)

Food for Thought Today: Do WE do enough?

NOW THAT I KNOW – I can join the New England Region Committee....
Contact Us

Federal Railroad Administration

1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE

Washington, DC 20590

Connect with us at USDOTFRA

Norma Jean Griffiths

Federal Railroad Administration

Norma.Griffths@dot.gov

Christopher Harrington

Keolis Commuter Rail

Chris.Harrington@keoliscs.com

Manual Machado

Keolis Commuter Rail

Manual.Machado@keoliscs.com

Cynthia Delaney

MBTA

CDelaney2@mbta.com
31

Data Analysis of Area Trespassing Events

Frank is currently a General Engineer with Federal Railroad Administration out of Washington, D.C.. He’s been

with FRA for 11 years, tasked with providing engineering solutions to complex railroad grade crossing designs. His

position requires periodic travel throughout the country, conducting diagnostic safety reviews of grade crossing

locations with various railroads and municipalities involved. He is involved with new and innovative grade crossing

signal technologies.

Prior to joining the FRA, Frank spent 13 years with the Massachusetts’ Department of Public Utilities (DPU) as

their Transit Engineer. His main role involved the implementation of state safety and regulatory oversight of all

public railroad grade crossings within the Commonwealth.

Frank attended Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston, MA where he received a B.S. in Mechanical

Engineering Technology. Shortly thereafter, he attended the University of Massachusetts where he earned a M.S. in

Public Affairs.

Frank Frey

General Engineer 

Federal Railroad Administration
32

FRA Goals

FRA has set a goal of a 5% annual reduction in accidents and a 5% annual reduction 

in fatalities across the nationwide rail network 

• Crossing and Trespassing represent 95.6% of all fatalities across the rail network in 2021

Trespasser, Not At Crossings:

625 Fatalities

69.3%

Grade Crossings:

237 Fatalities

Other: 26.3%

40 Fatalities

4.4%

2021 Fatalities By Type
33

Crossing Accidents and Fatalities by Year

Fatalities at crossings have been gradually increasing over the previous 10 years 

(when not considering the impacts of COVID on fatalities)

246

231 232

262

237

255

271

258

293

196

237

Fatalities at Crossings 2011-2021
34

Crossing Accidents and Fatalities by Year

Accidents at crossings have also been gradually increasing over the previous 10 years 

(when not considering the impacts of COVID on accidents)

2064

1988

2104

2296

2080 2050

2124

2233 2231

1906

2131

Accidents at Crossings 2011-2021
35

Purpose: To help meet FRA’s annual goal

• 5% reduction in fatalities at crossings

• 5% reduction in accidents at crossings

Objective:

• To alert and familiarize State DOTs about the high-risk crossing 

locations that are identified within their state.

• To provide engineering recommendations and solutions to mitigate 

crossing hazards at those crossings

• To provide education on funding opportunities available

Purpose and Objective
36

Two lists were generated to identify approximately 100 crossings:

• Crossings with the 5 of more accidents over a 5-year period

• Crossings with 2 or more fatal accidents over a 5-year period

• Note that injuries were not analyzed because the FRA goals focus on reducing accidents 

and fatalities only

Working one state at a time, we meet with the State DOT to inquire about 

these crossings in their state. We discuss which crossings may already have a 

programmed a project (or recently completed construction) to improve 

safety.

Analyzing Data
37

For those that are not yet programmed for 

safety improvements, we begin a more detailed 

analysis and preparations for a diagnostic site 

visit.• Review each accident report from that crossing (directions of the vehicles and trains, the time of 

day, roadway user actions, etc)

• Compare maps, images, and any media reports. • Determine key areas to focus on when we conduct the diagnostic (ie, looking into the preemption 

timing and circuitry if most accidents are vehicles 

stopped on the tracks near a stoplight). 

• Determine which partner agencies and personnel to invite to the diagnostic site visit.

Detailed Analysis of Accidents at Crossings
38

We travel to the crossings site(s) in that state 

and conduct a diagnostic site visit with all 

relevant stakeholders: • FRAo HQ Staff o Local S&TC Specialist or Inspector o GX&TP Specialist or Inspector • FHWA • State DOT • Public Utility Commission • Local agencies such as city or county staff • Railroads • Police and Law Enforcement • EMS / First responders • Any other stakeholders with interest

Diagnostic Site Visit
39

Depending on the state, some prefer that they take the 

lead managing and conducting the diagnostic while 

others prefer FRA to be the lead and manage the 

diagnostic: 

• If FRA is the lead manager of the diagnostic site visit, 

FRA will draft the report to document the findings on 

the site (such as site conditions, roadway user 

behavior, etc) and the potential solutions to mitigate 

the risks.

• If the state is taking the lead, then FRA will review the 

draft of the report that they generate and provide 

feedback. 

Diagnostic Site Visit
40

The report describes the accident history, crossing 

characteristics, site conditions found in the field, 

roadway user actions observed, and recommended 

improvements as determined by the diagnostic team.

• Recommended improvements may be broken 

down in to short, medium, and longer-term 

depending on the circumstances

• Photos and diagrams of the existing conditions and 

potential locations for improvements are included 

in the reports

Diagnostic Site Visit
41

We have no direct funding to construct 

improvements, and the roadway owners have 

the final determination on whether to 

implement projects

• We direct states, municipalities, and railroads towards 

funding opportunities (i.e. CRISI, CARSI, RAISE)

• We also encourage states to consider Section 130 

funding where appropriate and assist states in working 

with our FHWA partners on prioritization and 

programming issues that may arise

Project programming and funding

Without funding, improvements to a crossing are 

just pictures and recommendations
42

Pictures from Site Visits

Car debris

CSX and Amtrak 

Crossing, Hospital 

Street in Richmond VA
43

Trespasser fatalities Route 139 – Holbrook, MA

MBTA

Fencing will be installed at each 

quadrant to channelize all pedestrians 

to deter trespassing along the R.O.W. 

or take short cuts to the station.
44

Trespasser fatalities Station Crossing – Brockton, MA

MBTA

• Lower the flasher lights

• Zig Zag Fencing
45

Trespasser fatalities Lincoln Street – Stockton, CA

BNSF and Amtrak
46

Trespasser fatalities Lincoln Street – Stockton, CA

BNSF and Amtrak
47
48
49
50
51

What we have done so far:

• Have worked with nine states: MD, VA, OH, PA, IL, IN, CA (northern), AZ, MA

• Upcoming work to include high risk locations in other states: GA, AL, LA, NM, CO, FL, CA 

(southern), UT, TX, WA

• Visited close to 40 crossing sites

• Leveraging the S&TC + GX Specialists can expand our “reach” to get to more states and 

crossings

Challenges
52

Evaluation of In future years an evaluation of 

the effectiveness may be conducted:

• An equal period of time is typically analyzed before an 

after construction

• (such as a 5-year accident history before construction 

compared to a 5-year accident history after construction)

• Further analysis in future years may assist other 

agencies in determining the most cost-effective types 

of improvements 

(Future) Data analysis and evaluation after construction
Contact Us

Federal Railroad Administration

1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE

Washington, DC 20590

Connect with us at USDOTFRA

James (Jim) Dahlem, PE

Transportation Specialist

(202) 493-0571

james.dahlem@dot.gov

Frank A. Frey

General Engineer

(202) 738-2195

frank.frey@dot.gov
April 29, 2022

RAIL

MOVING AMERICA FORWARD

Questions for our Panelist 
April 29, 2022

RAIL

MOVING AMERICA FORWARD

Break 
April 29, 2022

RAIL

MOVING AMERICA FORWARD

Local Railroad Trespassing Mitigation Strategies
57

Local Railroad Trespassing Mitigation Strategies

• Railroad Trespassing Enforcement 

Grant Program: The grantees will 

perform rail trespassing 

enforcement-related activities and 

report those activities and 

associated benefits to FRA. 

• The Community Trespass Prevention 

Program is a local, state and national 

partnership aimed at reducing 

trespassing and crossing incidents 

and related injuries and deaths.
58

• Fitchburg MA. Subject passed out in between 

railroad tracks, officers came upon subject, 

administered Narcan and removed subject from 

tracks and taken to hospital. 

• Greensboro, NC.: 1st qtr. of FY21, Greensboro 

reported officers discovered a subject attempted to 

commit suicide by train. Subject was taken to a 

medical hospital. 

• Hollywood, FL: 1/29/2021, officers located an 

intoxicated male passed out on the tracks, they 

were able to pull him off the tracks prior to any 

train strike. 

58

Railroad Trespassing Enforcement Grants 

2020 Law Enforcement Grant Totals

Total Contacts Total Summons/Arrest Total Warnings Trespass Warnings Other Warning

649 214 435 379 56

106 0 106 98 10

114 34 80 57 10

0 0 0 0 21

713 1 148 148 8

876 397 758 776 245

15 0 15 5 10

14 6 12 9 3

29 0 29 15 14

184 69 115 88 27

474 398 76 0 76

3174 1119 1774 1575 480

The objective of the program is to deter railroad trespass in the 

most prone areas through law enforcement activities. 

In 2021 FRA announced $2.3 million in available funding under the 2021 CRSIS Grant Program. 
April 29, 2022

RAIL

MOVING AMERICA FORWARD

Norma Griffiths - FRA
60

Local Railroad Trespassing Mitigation Strategies

Ryan Coholan

Chief Railroad Officer 

MBTA

Ryan Coholan is a 27-year railroad veteran, who started into the 

industry as most of us do, out of curiosity. Ryan began working in a 

locomotive shop as a laborer and progressed through the ranks and 

also across disciplines. Ryan has held many positions in the railroad 

industry, such as Trainmaster, Rules Examiner, Train Dispatcher, Track 

Inspector and General Manager. Ryan joined the MBTA in 2014 as a 

Railroad Operations Manager and has been the Chief Railroad Officer 

since 2016. In this role, Ryan is responsible for the safe and efficient 

daily operation of the MBTA/MassDOT Commuter Rail system, as well 

as administration of the Operating Agreement with Keolis Commuter 

Services, and the administration of the Operating Agreements with 

Amtrak, CSX Transportation, and other tenant railroads. Ryan also 

actively maintains his certifications, including his locomotive 

engineer’s qualifications.
An Overview of Commuter Rail 

Trespassing Mitigation 

Strategies

Presented by 

Ryan D. Coholan

Chief Railroad Officer

Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority

Federal Railroad Administration

Railroad Trespass Summit

April 27, 2022
Service

Overview

• 175 cities and towns 

• 13 lines

• 141 stations

• 398 miles of track

Passengers

• 2.5 million trips per month pre-Covid 

(Currently about 60%)

Operational safety

• MBTA Commuter Rail operates in full 

compliance with the Code of Federal 

Regulations (CFR), and holds itself to 

additional operating standards; which go 

beyond federal limits.
Situational 

analysis

BACKGROUND

• Unusual surge in persontrain collisions on commuter 

rail in 2017

• MBTA called for task force 

to study the issue

• Commuter Rail Collision 

Reduction Committee 

(CRCRC) formed

2013 2014 2015 2016 2017

Person-Train

Collisions 13 16 12 13 30

YOY Change 23% -25% 8% 131%

13 16

12 13

30

Previous range 

12-16 incidents 

per year

Commuter Rail 

Person-Train 

Collisions 

2013-2017
Guidance

The Commuter Rail Collision Reduction 

Committee (CRCRC)

Comprised of representatives from public safety, public 

health, mental health, and transportation, worked 

together to: study the issue of person-train collisions 

locally, nationally, and globally; and recommend 

mitigation efforts intended to reduce incidents on the 

commuter rail system.

Early indications pointed to an increase in intentional 

incidents locally and nationally as a possible reason for 

the increase on commuter rail. 

With this in mind, the CRCRC focused on mitigation 

strategies to:

1. aid those in need;

2. support employees; and 

3. reduce trespassing on and around the tracks.

In an emergency, calling 1-800-522-8236, is the most direct way to notify 

CRCRC Key Recommendations (by audience)

1. For the media

• Responsible reporting guidelines to reduce copycat incidents

2. For passengers and those in need

• Campaigns to generate awareness about mental health to help 

those in need 

• Signage at stations and along the right-of way to remind the public 

that trespassing is illegal, and to help those in need of support

• Rail safety education, events, and ongoing safety messaging

• Continued location specific mitigation efforts to reduce the possibility 

of future collisions 

3. For employees

• Suicide intervention training to help frontline staff spot a potential danger

• Scripts for train crews to use with passengers during a person-train 

collision incident 

• info will be readily available. 
Mitigation

In partnership 

with the media

Recommendation #1

Provide local media with reporting guidelines, 

developed by the U.S. Department of 

Transportation, for safe and effective messaging on 

rail incidents. 

Responsible reporting:

• Reduced copycat events

• Encouraged vulnerable individuals to seek help

• Changed public perceptions about mental 

health

• Inspired hope

Timing

Ongoing from 2017

Media guidelines author Scott Gabree, Engineering Psychologist/Transportation Human Factors, U.S. Department of Transportation, Volpe Center; and CRCRC member

https://www.volpe.dot.gov/rail-suicide-prevention
Mitigation

To support 

those in need

Recommendation #2

Work in partnership with local crisis and 

prevention organizations such as the 

Massachusetts Department of Public 

Health, and Samaritans, Inc. to provide 

those in need with information for 

support; and to improve perceptions 

about mental health.

Timing

Ongoing - The MBTA has been in 

partnership with Samaritans, Inc. for 

over 15 years.

Clockwise: 

• Awareness campaign for suicide prevention

• 5K Walk/Run to increase awareness

• Lighting of Government Center Station to 

support suicide prevention awareness week
Mitigation

To support 

those in need

Recommendation #2

In the spring and summer of 2018, over 

1,200 Samaritans and No Trespassing 

signs were installed across the MBTA 

system to:

• remind the public that trespassing is 

dangerous and illegal;

• and to provide a resource for those 

in need of support.

Timing

Initial install was completed in 2018. 

Samaritans signage will be updated this 

summer with the new 588 national 

suicide prevention number.
Mitigation

To support 

those in need

Recommendation #2

Location specific mitigation

Middleborough – Restrict access in 

the Route 44 area

Person-train collisions and illegal ATV path

Three intentional person-train incidents took place in the Route 44 

overpass area between 2010 and 2019. There was also a worn, 

illegal ATV path parallel to the tracks.

Mitigation efforts:

• To reduce access to the ROW, KCS replaced sections of the 

fence, and repaired a gate, which was damaged by a previous 

storm, in the area entrance. 

• Concrete blocks were set along sections of ROW to block ATV 

access.

• No Trespassing and HOPE signage was installed in 

appropriate locations.

• Local police will keep an eye on the area.

.
Mitigation

To support 

those in need

Recommendation #2

Location specific mitigation

Middleborough – Restrict access in 

the Route 44 area

Person-train collisions and illegal ATV path

Three intentional person-train incidents took place in the Route 44 

overpass area between 2010 and 2019. There was also a worn, 

illegal ATV path parallel to the tracks.

Mitigation efforts:

• To reduce access to the ROW, KCS replaced sections of the 

fence, and repaired a gate, which was damaged by a previous 

storm, in the area entrance. 

• Concrete blocks were set along sections of ROW to block ATV 

access.

• No Trespassing and HOPE signage was installed in 

appropriate locations.

• Local police will keep an eye on the area.

.
Mitigation

To support 

those in need

Person-Train Collisions (Repeat location)

September 12, 2018, suicide

November 13, 2018, suicide attempt

Location 

Under the Route 20/Main Street overpass

Repeat location

Yes

Access to the ROW

The area is currently fenced off. Both people climbed over fence to gain 

access to tracks.

Mitigation

• Fencing before and after overpass replaced with higher fence.

• No Trespassing signage and HOPE signage installed. 

• Local police will keep an eye on the area.

Recommendation #2

Location specific mitigation

Waltham – Under the Main Street overpass
Mitigation

To support 

those in need

Wellesley

Middle School

Bridge 

Overpass

Bridge 

Overpass Safety Concern

Area residents report that middle school students are cutting across the 

tracks as they travel to and from school. 

Mitigation efforts:

• 700’ of fencing installed along Linden Street behind the Wellesley 

Middle School

• ‘No Trespassing’ and ‘Hope’ signage to be installed along the fence in 

April.

• Operation Lifesaver training offered to resource officers and students 

of Wellesley Middle School. 

• Local police will watch the area.

.

Recommendation #2

Location specific mitigation

Wellesley – Cut-through on Linden Street
Mitigation

To support employees

Recommendation #3

• Training for front line 

employees

• Scripts for train crews in the 

event of an incident
Update

https://www.bostonherald.com/2021/04/04/suicide-deaths-reportedlydropped-in-2020-but-full-picture-is-not-clear-amid-coronaviruspandemic/

https://www.wbur.org/news/2021/01/21/study-no-increase-suicidepandemic-massachusetts

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/suicide-rate-decreases-by3-percent-for-second-consecutive-year-according-to-most-recent-cdcdata-year-2020-301493105.html

While we may never fully understand 

why intentional incidents increased 

and then declined in the last few 

years, we do know that helping 

those in need of support, educating 

the public about rail safety, and 

finding ways to reduce collisions, are 

efforts that will continue into the 

future.

2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021

Person-Train Collisions 13 16 12 13 30 22 21 13 11

YOY Change 23% -25% 8% 131% -27% -5% -38% -15%

13 16

12

13

30

22 21

13

11

Commuter Rail PersonTrain Collisions 

2013-2021

-63% from 

2017-2021
An Overview of Commuter Rail Trespassing 

Mitigation Strategies

Presented by 

Ryan D. Coholan, Chief Railroad Officer

Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority

Federal Railroad Administration

Railroad Trespass Summit

April 27, 2022

Thank you
75

Local Railroad Trespassing Mitigation Strategies

Robert Hanson

Detective 

Amtrak Police Department

Detective Robert Hanson worked for the Amtrak Police Department as a patrol officer 

since 2010 and was promoted to the rank of Detective in 2015. In his time with Amtrak 

Police, Detective Hanson has been the lead investigator on over 120 fatal train accidents 

along with hundreds of other investigations across the New England Division. He is 

responsible for leading all of the Amtrak Police criminal investigations across CT, MA, VT 

and New Hampshire. Detective Hanson is heavily involved in Amtrak’s safety and 

security mission including customers, employees and community safety. Developing 

collaborative partnerships with State, local and community stakeholders is the 

foundation for success and resiliency across the transportation system. 
Federal Railroad 

Administration Grade 

Crossing/ Trespassing 

Summit 

April 27, 2022

Detective Robert Hanson

Amtrak Police

Amtrak Police Department | Det. Robert Hanson 76
The Anatomy of a 

Grade Crossing and 

Trespassing Incident

Operation LIFESAVER

Amtrak Police Department | Det. Robert Hanson 77
Motorist Action Number

Did not stop 785

Stopped on crossing 562

Went around gate 327

Other 209

Stopped then proceeded 118

Suicide or attempted suicide 30

Operation LIFESAVER

Amtrak Police Department | Det. Robert Hanson 78

2021 Public 

Crossings –

Motorist Actions
Amtrak Police Statistics 

Amtrak Police Department | Det. Robert Hanson 79

404 Rail-related 

Fatalities in 2021

Trespassers 238

Vehicles 166

At Grade Crossings 152

Suicides (Confirmed) 69

59%

41%

STRIKE DATA

Trespassers Vehicles
2021 Data Analysis 

Amtrak Police Department | Det. Robert Hanson 80
Strikes within

New England

Division

Amtrak Police Department | Det. Robert Hanson 81
Call for Service 

Analysis 

Amtrak Police Department | Det. Robert Hanson 82
Amtrak Police Department | Det. Robert Hanson 83

Crime Type 

and 

Associations 
Challenges of Determining Root Cause 

Amtrak Police Department | Det. Robert Hanson 84

July 28, 2019

Newton, NH

85 Year old Male
Amtrak Police Department | Det. Robert Hanson 85

FAST FACTS

The statistics speak clearly. Stay off the tracks or face tragic, 

deadly consequences
Partnerships

Amtrak Police Department | Det. Robert Hanson 86
Amtrak Police Department | Det. Robert Hanson 87

Operation LIFESAVER
Operation LIFESAVER

Amtrak Police Department | Det. Robert Hanson 88

Suicides

Year National Injuries APD

2016 274 36 88

2017 277 41 84

2018 265 37 54

2019 110 16 62

2020 120 15 57

2021 69
Amtrak Police Department | Det. Robert Hanson 89

Signage Based on 

Location Analysis
21 Before 12 After 43% Reduction

Amtrak Police Department | Det. Robert Hanson 90
Intelligence Based Policing 

Amtrak Police Department | Det. Robert Hanson 91

Amtrak Police Office of 

Intelligence & Analysis 

(OIA)

Supports security and 

counterterrorism efforts by 

coordinating and sharing 

information with agencies in 

the intelligence and law 

enforcement communities
Amtrak Police Department | Det. Robert Hanson
Where Do We Go From Here?

Amtrak Police Department | Det. Robert Hanson 93
Grade Crossing Outreach

Amtrak Police Department | Det. Robert Hanson 94
Collaboration and Innovation to Develop Infrastructure Resiliency 

Amtrak Police Department | Det. Robert Hanson 95
Amtrak Police Department | Det. Robert Hanson 96

Social Media

FB: @StayOffTheTracks

TW: @StayOffTheTrax

Visit us online at

www.oli.org and 

www.stayoffthetracks.org

Tell 

somebody
97

Local Railroad Trespassing Mitigation Strategies

Jean Fox 

Outreach Director 

South Coast Rail

Jean Fox is the Director of Community Engagement for the MBTA’s 

South Coast Rail project. Jean has been involved with the project 

since 2011, when she joined MassDOT to shepherd the project 

through design and permitting. A resident of Freetown in 

Southeastern MA, Jean has served on the town’s Board of 

Selectmen, the SRPEDD Commission and MPO, the South Coast 

Development Partnership, the State Commission on the Status of 

Women, among other organizations, and has been recognized for 

her advocacy and commitment to the region by SRPEDD, the YWCA 

of Southeastern MA, and the Greater New Bedford Workforce 

Investment Board. Jean cares deeply about her region of the 

Commonwealth and the its vast potential. In her current role with 

the MBTA, Jean interacts with legislators, municipal leaders, 

business organizations, and area residents. She will be working on 

implementing a comprehensive safety program for the South Coast 

Rail Corridor, collaborating closely with the cities and towns and 

their respective public safety officials.
98

Local Railroad Trespassing Mitigation Strategies

Randy Hunt

Senior Director of Administration 

South Coast Rail 

Randy Hunt is Senior Director of Administration for the MBTA’s 

South Coast Rail. He is a CPA with a career in government and 

the private sector. Randy brings deep experience 

to the project. As a member of the Sandwich Board of 

Selectmen, he managed town issues and concerns. During his 

10 years as a State Representative for the 5th Barnstable 

District, he worked on transportation, telecommunications, 

health care policy, elder affairs and more. In the private sector, 

he worked for large accounting and manufacturing firms and 

later set up his own practice. Randy also manages civic 

engagement for South Coast Rail, and he will be involved in 

managing implementation of the safety program for 

Commuter Rail service startup. 
South Coast Rail

Greater Boston Railroad Trespassing Summit

April 27, 2022
History of the Operating Railroads

• Railroads once crisscrossed Southeastern MA

• Passenger Rail service ended in the late 1950s 

and the ROW has seen only slow-moving freight 

since 1959

• The only recorded incidents SCR is aware of have 

been derailments

• Limited train traffic results in unsafe and 

recreational use of the ROW

• With no ROW monitoring, multiple, unsafe, and 

illegal uses of the railroad area occur

South Coast Rail - Trespassing Summit - April 2022
Phase 1 Stations and Layover Facilities

• New construction: six stations and two layover 

facilities; service anticipated at the end of 2023

Church Street 

Station 

South Coast Rail - Trespassing Summit - April 2022
Anticipated Operations 

26 trains will operate on the 

Middleborough Secondary each weekday 

when Phase 1 begins service, two more 

than the current 24 that currently end 

service at Middleborough/Lakeville

• 13 trains inbound and 13 trains 

outbound

• 12 of 26 trains will operate during peak 

periods, 6 inbound and 6 outbound

Result: a train will pass by approximately 

every 45 minutes during peak periods, 

and approximately every 1.5 – 2 hours 

during off-peak periods

South Coast Rail - Trespassing Summit - April 2022
Challenges in the Region: Enforcement 

• With no ROW monitoring, recreational activities (ATVs, 

dog walking, running), crimes, arson, vandalism and tagging have been common, along with trash dumping

• Tracks and previously abandoned station sites are often 

used by homeless individuals, particularly in Fall River and New Bedford due to high levels of homelessness

• Municipalities have concerns about the 

necessary resources required to contain homelessness, 

trespassing, and crime along the ROW

• Some sites have already been cleared due to the 

presence of local or nearby construction activities

• Environmental Police have fined ATV operators when 

there is staff to monitor local sites

South Coast Rail - Trespassing Summit - April 2022
Community Coordination on Homelessness

• Because the route goes through cities and rural areas, homeless people 

have constructed encampments along the ROW

• SCR is working with the cities to address the issue

• Fall River: 160 homeless (Point in Time survey, not including those in shelters); 

coordinating with a FAST Response Team that consists of a director, Police Liaison, 2 

recovery coaches, and a clinician

• New Bedford: 61 chronically homeless; responsibility of New Bedford’s Continuum 

of Care, the Homeless Service Provider Network (HSPN). Here there has been a 

tendency to set up camps on vacant lots (one is an SCR station site) or adjacent to 

rail

• SCR works with the cities’ staffs and police to identify access points and 

clear these locations

South Coast Rail - Trespassing Summit - April 2022
Fall River ROW Homeless Site 

South Coast Rail - Trespassing Summit - April 2022
Challenge - Rescues and Accidents

• SCR is planning implementation of a 

Railroad Safety Program throughout the 

region

• Currently conducting fire/life/safety 

meetings with Police and Fire 

Departments in the region 

• Concerns raised: human resources 

(staff) and capital resources 

(equipment)

South Coast Rail - Trespassing Summit - April 2022
SCR Current Safety Approaches 

• In fact sheets, emails, presentations 

and community meetings, SCR 

addresses safety and shares this 

message:

There is no safe place to be on the tracks 

except in a train or at a designated public 

crossing

• Fencing is being placed to enhance 

safety and minimize trespassing on 

the railroad right-of-way

• Fall River has installed cameras to 

monitor grade crossings, which are 

major access points trespassers use 

to access the ROW

South Coast Rail - Trespassing Summit - April 2022
Public Safety Educational Materials 

SCR is developing educational rail safety videos for 

multiple audiences:

• K-12 videos targeted to three age groups with 

companion classroom training materials

• General public safety video

• Videos to include closed captioning and be 

translated into Portuguese and Spanish

Video distribution plan is in development

South Coast Rail - Trespassing Summit - April 2022
Mass Coastal Railroad – Freight Operator

• The railroad operates a network of lines 

totaling almost 60 miles of track 

stretching from Fall River to Hyannis

• Freight trains operate at low speed, 10 

mph, five days a week

• MCRR provides right-of-way safety 

programs for all rail users

• MCRR promotes Operation Lifesaver

South Coast Rail - Trespassing Summit - April 2022
Mass Coastal Active ROW

South Coast Rail - Trespassing Summit - April 2022
Summary

• SCR is developing a multi-phase safety 

program to prepare for new Commuter Rail 

service in late 2023 – and we are interested 

in learning more best practices

• Videos for schools and the public, and 

coordination with communities, homeless 

advocates and police and fire departments 

are all in progress

• Our goal: To prepare all southeastern MA 

cities and towns for new, higher speed trains 

on an active right-of-way

South Coast Rail - Trespassing Summit - April 2022
April 29, 2022

RAIL

MOVING AMERICA FORWARD

Questions for our Panelist 
April 29, 2022

RAIL

MOVING AMERICA FORWARD

Lunch 
April 29, 2022

RAIL

MOVING AMERICA FORWARD

Railroad Trespassing Treatments & Tools 
115

Francesco Bedini Jacobini

Federal Railroad Administration

Railroad Trespassing Treatments & Tools 

Mr. Francesco Bedini Jacobini joined the FRA in 2017 

where he currently serves as Program Manager for Grade 

Crossing and Trespass Research within the FRA’s Office of 

Research, Development and Technology. He previously 

worked for four years with the Illinois Department of 

Transportation on the Chicago to St. Louis High Speed 

Rail project. He holds a Bachelor and Master of Science 

degrees in Civil Engineering, both from the University of 

Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
11

6

Trespass Database (Rutgers University)

• One year of data 

collection in 2021 at 

four different locations

• Ramsey, NJ

• Thomasville, NC (2)

• Ashland, NJ

• 27,000+ trespassing 

events

Number of trespass casualties 2011 – 2021 (NY, NJ & NC): 565

Including suicides

FRA Trespass Dashboard: https://explore.dot.gov/t/FRA/views/TrespassandSuicideDashboard/
11

7

Trespass Casualties are Just the Tip of the Iceberg:

Trespassers by Type (Rutgers)

Four Locations Near Miss Distribution (Rutgers)

4/29/2022
11

8

Main St., Ramsey, NJ 2021 Data

• Data from Ramsey, NJ

• Crossing ID: 263186S

• About 21,000 trespassing 

events

• Approx. 5,000 violations 

from pedestrians

4/29/2022

Data from Rutgers University
119

Railroad Trespassing Treatments & Tools 

Mr. Marco daSilva is a Senior Engineer at the U.S. Department 

of Transportation (USDOT) Volpe Center in Cambridge, 

Massachusetts. His work portfolio includes management of 

the Volpe Center’s Highway-Rail Grade Crossing and Trespass 

Research program in support of the Federal Railroad 

Administration. Mr. daSilva holds a Bachelor’s degree in 

Mechanical Engineering from Boston University and a 

Master’s degree in Transportation Engineering from 

Northeastern University.

Marco daSilva

USDOT Volpe Center
120

Problem-Solving Guide

Community Analysis Response Evaluation

Identify and describe 

the trespass problem. 

Identify community 

resources and begin 

involvement.

Organize a problemsolving committee 

with community 

stakeholders and 

develop an action 

plan.

Develop data 

collection and 

analysis plan. 

Collect trespass 

data.

Analyze the data to 

determine the 

underlying causes of 

the trespass 

problem.

Establish baseline 

and identify 

measures to 

determine program’s 

effectiveness. 

Identify and implement 

feasible countermeasures

- Develop 

countermeasures 

(CM) 

implementation plan.

- Implement CM, such 

as: education, 

enforcement, 

engineering, and 

other strategies 

developed by the 

committee.

Assess impact of the response, 

and determine whether the 

trespass problem was displaced, 

reduced, unchanged, or 

eliminated.

Evaluate the process used and 

assess whether the key 

stakeholders were identified and 

included, the underlying causes 

correctly identified, the response 

implemented as planned, and 

reasons why parts of the plan may 

not have been implemented.

Develop and implement a longterm program monitoring plan if 

needed.

C.A.R.E.: Community, Analysis, Response, and Evaluation

https://www.fra.dot.gov/eLib/Details/L02716
121

Goal

• Create safer communities by fostering the development of long-term trespass 

prevention strategies through collaborative community problem-solving 

partnerships.

• It’s a collaboration between different entities, it is a shared responsibility 

between railways and other stakeholders.
122

Strategy

• “Problem-solving model designed to provide a step-by step 

approach for addressing railway trespassing issues in communities.”

• “Based on lessons learned during actual collaborative community 

problem-solving projects.”

• Help solve existing trespassing problems or potential trespass 

issues resulting from re-zoning or planned construction.

• Dissemination of good practices can make the difference.
123

Problem-Solving Guide

C.A.R.E.: Community, Analysis, Response, and Evaluation

Step 1 – Community

• Identify the trespassing problem in the community and 

potential community stakeholders.

• Develop a general statement to describe the problem.

(e.g., children are crossing the railway tracks where the

street dead ends at the tracks.)

• Organize a community problem-solving meeting to discuss

the issues and develop an action plan for your Trespass

Prevention Program.

Worcester, MA Rail Trespass Study (2018)
124

Problem-Solving Guide

Step 2 – Analysis

Collect more detailed information about the trespassing problem and

determine its underlying causes.

Examples of information:

• Incident data from the law enforcement partners

• Trespass site surveys

• Trespasser survey by law enforcement partners

• Locomotive and stationary video data

• Train crew interviews by railroad officials

• Survey of residents, businesses, and schools at problem locations

A (high risk):

B (medium risk):

C (low risk):

D (negligible risk):
125

Problem-Solving Guide

Step 2 – Analysis (continued)

Answer the following in as much detail as possible:

•Who is trespassing, and what are their ages? (students, residents,

workers...)

•What are they doing while on the tracks? (walking, crossing the tracks,

riding a bicycle, playing, drinking...)

•When does it happen: time, day of the week, month, season?

•Where are they entering an exiting the railroad property? Where are they

going? Coming From? Where is the desired path?

•How are they entering and exiting the railroad property? (no barrier

present, hole in fence, climbing, jumping, at a crossing...)
126

Problem-Solving Guide

Step 2 – Analysis (continued)

• Determine the underlying cause(s) of trespassing

•Analysis of information collected and analysis of common factors (time,

location, point of entry, or point of exit...)

• Develop statement describing the underlying cause(s) in detail and a

goal to describe what you want to achieve from the program.

• Identify scale of the problem:

• Large scale: whole community or many organizations needed to solve

• Medium scale: focused group can solve

• Small scale: one or two people or organizations can solve

• Identify measures that will be used to determine effectiveness of the

program (trespass reduction/elimination, increased public awareness...)
127

Problem-Solving Guide

Step 3 – Response

Identify and implement the most effective and feasible response(s) that will

help solve the underlying cause(s) of trespassing:

• Education (e.g. school presentations, media, other)

• Engineering or Environmental Design (e.g. fences, signs, crossing)

• Enforcement

• Other Strategy

• Implement the plan
128

Problem-Solving Guide

Step 4 – Evaluation

Process: Determine if the process was effective and why or why not.

• Were the key stakeholders and resources identified and included?

• Were the underlying causes correctly identified?

• Was the response implemented as planned? If not, why?

• Was any part of the plan not implemented? Why?

• Was the trespass problem displaced, reduced, unchanged, or eliminated?

Based on the implemented response, will this project require a long-term commitment and

monitoring? Who will need to be involved? What could happen if the response is left in place?

What could happen if it’s taken away?
129

Summary

•The approach is collaboration between different players, it is a

shared responsibility between railways and other stakeholders.

• Dissemination of good practices can make the difference.

Guide: https://www.fra.dot.gov/eLib/Details/L02716

Research Report (West Palm Beach, FL): https://www.fra.dot.gov/eLib/details/L05307

Research Results (Worcester, MA): https://rosap.ntl.bts.gov/view/dot/55705

Research Article: http://onlinepubs.trb.org/onlinepubs/trnews/trnews322TrespassPreventionModel.pdf
130

Rail Trespass Treatments/Countermeasures

 Detection and Warning

 Anti-trespass technologies/treatments

 Education Initiatives

 Enforcement Strategies
131

Detection and Warning

Fixed Systems

PTZ cameras, includes a speaker and microphone

Uses video motion detection as a sensor

Live video fed into police dispatch center

Dispatchers can control PTZs and speak to trespassers

Sensors or Machine Learning (ML) algorithms

Research Report (2020): https://rosap.ntl.bts.gov/view/dot/50849

Mobile (drone) Systems

Mobile camera on a drone by the police 

Provide coverage over a significant amount of ROW

Used to identify and track trespassers in areas of the ROW that are 

difficult to access by the police.

Research Report (2020): https://rosap.ntl.bts.gov/view/dot/50848
132

Anti-Trespass Technologies/Treatments

Non-crossing Locations

• Warning Signs

• Right-of-way Fencing

• Effect of three countermeasures against the illegal crossing of railway 

tracks: Fencing reduced trespassing by 94.6 percent, landscaping 91.3 

percent and prohibitive signs 30.7 percent

• High-Security Fencing for Rail Right-of-way Applications Research Report 

(2015): https://rosap.ntl.bts.gov/view/dot/12237

• Landscaping

• Obstruction removal to increase visibility

• Grade Separation
133

Anti-Trespass Technologies/Treatments

At Crossings

• Anti-Trespass Guard Panels 

• Anti-trespass guard panels reduced the number of pedestrians who 

trespassed on railroad ROW by 38 percent. (Report 2019: 

https://rosap.ntl.bts.gov/view/dot/41716)

• Pedestrian Gate Skirts & Channelization

• 56 percent reduction in pedestrian violations while the gates were 

descending; 19 percent reduction in pedestrian violations while the gates 

were horizontal. (Report 2020: https://rosap.ntl.bts.gov/view/dot/53572)

• Right-of-Way Incursion Treatments

• Pavement markings through the crossing and reflective markers 

and flexible delineators on both sides and in between the tracks.

• 85 percent reduction in frequency of vehicles turning onto the tracks in initial 

study. (Report 2018: https://rosap.ntl.bts.gov/view/dot/37006)
134

Enforcement Strategies

Law Enforcement Strategies for Preventing Rail Trespassing

Research Report (2016): https://rosap.ntl.bts.gov/view/dot/12258

Law Enforcement Strategies for Reducing Trespassing Pilot Grant 

Program Results (2020): https://rosap.ntl.bts.gov/view/dot/53546
135

• FRA Research Repository: https://railroads.dot.gov/elibrary-search

• FRA’s National Strategy for Trespass Prevention on Railroad Property: 

https://www.fra.dot.gov/eLib/Details/L19817

• RosaP: https://rosap.ntl.bts.gov/

FRA References
136

Contact

Francesco Bedini Jacobini

Program Manager

Office of Research, Development, and Technology

Federal Railroad Administration

1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE

Washington, DC 20590

(202) 493-0800

Francesco.Bedini@dot.gov

Marco daSilva

Senior Engineer

Systems Safety and Engineering Division

Volpe National Transportation Systems Center

55 Broadway 

Cambridge, MA 02142

(617) 494-2246

marco.dasilva@dot.gov

NOTICE

This document is disseminated under the sponsorship of the Department of Transportation in the interest of information exchange. The United States Government assumes no liability for its contents or use 

thereof. Any opinions, findings and conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this material do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the United States Government, nor does mention of trade names, 

commercial products, or organizations imply endorsement by the United States Government. The United States Government assumes no liability for the content or use of the material contained in this document. 

The United States Government does not endorse products or manufacturers. Trade or manufacturers’ names appear herein solely because they are considered essential to the objective of this document.
137

Railroad Trespassing & Suicide Prevention Treatments 

Dr. Shala Blue is an Engineering Psychologist in the Human Factors 

Research Division, of Office of Research, Development, and 

Technology. Dr. Blue joined FRA in 2020 and is the Program Manager 

for the Trespass and Suicide Prevention Human Factors research 

portfolios. The main goal of these portfolios are to reduce the 

number of rail-related casualties that are due to trespass and suicide. 

Scott Gabree joined the Volpe Center in 2009 and is the manager of the 

research program for grade crossing safety and trespass prevention for 

Volpe’s Transportation Human Factors Division. The trespass prevention 

program seeks to better understand trespass and suicide incidents on the 

US rail system and what rail carriers may be able to do, in coordination 

with other groups, to help reduce the frequency and impact of these 

events. Scott and his team at Volpe are currently working with several rail 

carriers from around the country to try to improve our understanding of 

rail suicide. Scott Gabree 

USDOT Volpe Center

Dr. Shala Blue 

Federal Railroad Administration
FRA Human Factors Trespass and Suicide 

Prevention Program

Presented by:

Shala Blue, PhD

Presented to:

Boston Trespass Summit

April 2022
14

0

Human Factors Division

• The Human Factors (HF) division is part of FRA’s Office of Research Development and Technology (RD&T).

• RD&T Mission: Ensure the safe movement of people and goods by rail through the research and development of innovative 

technologies and solutions.

• The objective of research programs within HF is to improve rail safety by reducing the potential for human

error in railroad operations.

• The program develops decision support and planning tools, develops research-driven technologies and 

interventions, and works with stakeholders and partners to improve safety.

• Primary Program Areas:

• Trespass and Suicide Prevention

• Railroad Technology, Automation, and System Design

• Railroad Worker and Operator Performance

• FRA Office of Railroad Safety Support

• Grade Crossing Safety

• Monitoring and Support to Short Line Safety Institute (SLSI)
14

1

Railroad Trespass and Suicide Prevention Portfolios

Railroad Trespass Prevention

• This research seeks to better understand the 

leading cause of rail-related death in the U.S. 

• Identify countermeasures to prevent accidents 

attributable to trespassing. Identify and plan new 

efforts to support FRA rail trespass prevention. 

Railroad Suicide Prevention

• This research area explores seeks to reduce the

number of suicide casualties that occur on the

railroad ROWs.

• Improve understanding of the causal factors behind 

why individuals might contemplate suicide by rail. 
14

2

Trespass and Suicide Prevention Program

• Collaboration is very important for this 

research program

• Cross-modal and inter-agency collaborations

• Volpe partnership

• University research partnerships

• Rail community participation

• Other organization partnerships

1. Data Quality and Analysis

2. Countermeasure Development, Implementation, and 

Evaluation

3. Outreach
14

3

Railroad Trespass and Suicide Prevention: U.S. Outreach

Suicide Prevention for US Rail (SPUR) Working Group

• Background: Spinoff of Global Railway Alliance for Suicide Prevention 

(GRASP)

• Who: Railroad (commuter rail) representatives and others with knowledge or 

insight about suicides on US railroad ROWs

• Purpose: To better understand why trespass and suicides occur on rail, 

identify effective mitigation strategies, reduce prevalence, and improve rail 

safety by generating conversation and information-sharing among commuter 

railroad carriers about suicide and trespass prevention.

• Meetings: November 2021 and February 2022
14

4

Railroad Trespass and Suicide Prevention: U.S. Outreach

Invitation: Suicide Prevention for US Rail (SPUR) Working 

Group

If you would like to get involved or get more information, 

please contact:

Scott Gabree: Scott.Gabree@dot.gov

Stephanie Chase: Stephanie.Chase@dot.gov
Trespass and Suicide Prevention Toolkit

27 April 2022

Somerville, MA
A Team Effort

Volpe

• Stephanie Chase

• Alexa D’Adamo

• Marco DaSilva

• Scott Gabree

• Danielle Hiltunen

• Tashi Ngamdung

146

FRA (core team)

• RD&T

 Shala Blue

 Starr Kidda

 Jason Wornoff

• Safety

 Michail Grizkewitsch

• IT

 Samer Mina

 Arsene Nougbodohoue

• Communications

 Emma Zayer-Chaing
Trespass in the US

• Trespass and suicide 

represent the leading causes 

of rail related death in the 

United States

• Railroad carriers and rail 

safety experts are identifying 

strategies to prevent these 

incidents

147
Challenges for Trespass/Suicide Prevention

• Many driving factors stem from 

societal issues and may require 

collaboration with new partners

• A combination of approaches may 

be necessary for many situations

• Mitigations are often implemented 

quickly and without subsequent 

evaluation

148
Prevention requires a multifaceted approach

149

• Multiple strategies to 

truly address issues

• Informed by data

• Evaluation (e.g., CARE)

• Collaborations with 

outside groups

Engagement Data-Driven Evaluation Collaboration
RESTRAIL

• European Union (EU) effort 

compiled research on trespass 

and suicide prevention

• Toolkit developed to provide 

insight to project partners

• Continues to be updated with new 

insights from international 

partners

http://restrail.eu/toolbox/

150
Trespass and Suicide Prevention Toolkit

151

• Identify relevant and 

effective strategies

• Consider improvements to 

your current practices

• Help identify partners

• Stay informed with up-todate research to know 

which strategies may be 

the best fit for your situation
Trespass and Suicide Prevention Toolkit

152

• Navigation with filters 

and custom search

• Over 40 measures

• Summarized insights 

with links to more 

detailed information 

and documents
Trespass and Suicide Prevention Toolkit

• Description

• Notable Practices

• Advantages

• Drawbacks

• Images

• References

• Related Measures

153
Trespass and Suicide Prevention Toolkit

154

• Description

• Notable Practices

• Advantages

• Drawbacks

• Images

• References

• Related Measures
Trespass and Suicide Prevention Toolkit

155

• Description

• Notable Practices

• Advantages

• Drawbacks

• Images

• References

• Related Measures
Trespass and Suicide Prevention Toolkit

156

• Description

• Notable Practices

• Advantages

• Drawbacks

• Images

• References

• Related Measures
Trespass and Suicide Prevention Toolkit

157

• Description

• Notable Practices

• Advantages

• Drawbacks

• Images

• References

• Related Measures
Trespass and Suicide Prevention Toolkit

158

• Description

• Notable Practices

• Advantages

• Drawbacks

• Images

• References

• Related Measures
Trespass and Suicide Prevention Toolkit

159

• Description

• Notable Practices

• Advantages

• Drawbacks

• Images

• References

• Related Measures
Toolkit Navigation

• Incident Type: Are you looking to prevent trespass, 

suicide, or both?

• Location: Are your biggest issues at stations, along 

the right-of-way, or system wide?

• Intervention Strategy: Do you have a strategy in 

mind for how to approach the problem?

• Measure Group: Is there a certain type of approach 

that you are curious about?

160
TSP Toolkit: Intervention Strategy

• Data

 Understand the problem

• Engineering

 Restrict access to ROW

 Detect access to ROW

• Education

 Collaboration with partners

 Educate staff/ridership

• Enforcement

 Identify those at risk

161
TSP Toolkit: Intervention Strategy

• Data

 Understand the issue

• Engineering

 Restrict access to ROW

 Detect access to ROW

• Education

 Collaborate with partners

 Educate staff/ridership

• Enforcement

 Develop and enforce policies

162
TSP Toolkit: Intervention Strategy

• Data

 Understand the problem

• Engineering

 Restrict access to ROW

 Detect access to ROW

• Education

 Collaborate with partners

 Educate staff/ridership

• Enforcement

 Develop and enforce policies

163
TSP Toolkit: Intervention Strategy

• Data

 Understand the problem

• Engineering

 Restrict access to ROW

 Detect access to ROW

• Education

 Collaborate with partners

 Educate staff/ridership

• Enforcement

 Develop and enforce policies

164
TSP Toolkit: Intervention Strategy

• Data

 Understand the problem

• Engineering

 Restrict access to ROW

 Detect access to ROW

• Education

 Collaborate with partners

 Educate staff/ridership

• Enforcement

 Develop and enforce policies

165
TSP Toolkit: Intervention Strategy

• Data

 Understand the problem

• Engineering

 Restrict access to ROW

 Detect access to ROW

• Education

 Collaborate with partners

 Educate staff/ridership

• Enforcement

 Develop and enforce policies

166
TSP Toolkit: Intervention Strategy

• Data

 Understand the problem

• Engineering

 Restrict access to ROW

 Detect access to ROW

• Education

 Collaborate with partners

 Educate staff/ridership

• Enforcement

 Develop and enforce policies

167
Launching Soon!!

168

• Regularly updated

• Contact our team with 

feedback
169

Questions? 

Scott H. Gabree, PhD

Engineering Psychologist

617-494-2530

scott.gabree@dot.gov

www.volpe.dot.gov
April 29, 2022

RAIL

MOVING AMERICA FORWARD

Questions for our Panelist 
April 29, 2022

RAIL

MOVING AMERICA FORWARD

Break 
April 29, 2022

RAIL

MOVING AMERICA FORWARD

Community & Public Outreach Engagement 
173

August Greiner 

“Chip”

Safety inspector (GXTP)

Federal Railroad Administration

Community & Public Outreach Engagement 

Lifelong resident of New Jersey, married with two adult children who are both in law enforcement. 

Retired Police Chief with 42 years in Municipal, County, State and Railroad law enforcement. Served 8 

years as the Director of Public Safety for Bergen County and the Chief of Police Training for the Bergen 

County Police Academy. Graduate of Thomas Edison University with a bachelor’s degree in Criminal 

Justice and holds a New Jersey State Certified Public Manager certification from Rutgers University. 1999 

Graduate of the FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Academy at Princeton University. Starting 

my 5th year with the FRA as an Inspector with Grade Crossing & Trespass Outreach Division in District 1, 

covering the territory of NJ, NY, CT and RI.
174

Rachel Maleh

Executive Director 

Operating Lifesaver, Inc.

Community & Public Outreach Engagement 

Rachel Maleh is Executive Director of Operation Lifesaver, Inc, the national, 

nonprofit rail safety education organization based in Washington, D.C. Maleh 

has over 25 years’ experience in nonprofit management, communications, 

marketing, fundraising, organizational development, and leadership transition 

planning.

Prior to joining Operation Lifesaver, Inc. Maleh ran a communications 

consulting firm offering comprehensive nonprofit management services. 

Previously, she was Deputy Executive Director of the Greater Washington 

Region of the American Heart Association. Her experience also includes serving 

as Senior Advisor/Chief of Staff with the National Community Reinvestment 

Coalition in Washington, D.C.

Maleh has advanced degrees both in International Relations and International 

Communications from Boston University; as well as a Master of Science in 

Marketing from Johns Hopkins University. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in 

Sociology and French from Hobart and William Smith Colleges. 
Trespass Education 

and Prevention 

Strategies

Rachel Maleh

Executive Director
State Operation Lifesaver Programs Across the U.S.
2022 - Operation Lifesaver’s 50th Anniversary

GOALS

• Enhance OL visibility

• Strengthen partnerships

• Honor our past and positively position OLI for the future

• Tagline - Operation Lifesaver: 50 Years of Rail Safety 

• Hashtag - #50YearsofRailSafety

• View the timeline, volunteer highlights and take the 

safety pledge on the Anniversary landing page: 

oli.org/celebrate
50th Anniversary – Amtrak Commemorative Locomotive

OLI ED Rachel Maleh, U.S. Federal 

Railroad Administrator Amit Bose, OLI 

Board Chair Jo Strang

FRA Chief Counsel Allison Fultz 

speaking at the Jan. 12 launch event

Locomotive in Union Station, 

Washington, DC
Education Resources – Trains & Tracks Video

• 9-minute video for KindergartenSecond grade based on Trains & 

Tracks picture book 

• Additional resources for 

teachers and parents include 

lessons plans and activities

• Watch it here: 

https://vimeo.com/456794057
Education Resources - Mainline Middle School Video

• 9-minute video for middle 

schoolers created from a 

PowerPoint safety presentation

• Additional resources for teachers 

and parents include lessons plans 

and activities

• Find it online under FOR KIDS at 

oli.org 

https://oli.org/media/mainline-middle-school-video-grades-6-8
Education Resources - Train Safety Savvy Game

• Interactive web-based train trip across the 

country teaching rail safety along the way

• Designed for autonomous play, geared toward 7 

to 9-year-olds

• 3,000+ page views since launching in 2020; 

average of 4 minutes spent on the page

Find it online under FOR KIDS at oli.org
Tools and Resources - People Experiencing Homelessness

• Developed with assistance from Volpe Center experts, available in English and Spanish

• Image-driven poster highlighting positive and adverse choices around tracks and trains 

• Information-filled brochure for service providers and volunteers 
New Tools & Resources - College-Focus PSA

https://vimeo.com/648597719/10aa343fcd
New Tools & Resources – Other Audience-Specific PSAs

Shift Worker Mature Driver

https://vimeo.com/648607151/6638767ca9 https://vimeo.com/648603763/1e2a1ef526
New Tools and Resources – Train Track Trivia Game

• Interactive online game was 

launched in January as part of 

50th Anniversary efforts

• Players test their rail safety and 

rail history knowledge by trying to 

correctly answer 16 questions; 

players may replay the game to 

improve their score

• A new online game will be 

available on the first Tuesday of 

each month throughout OL’s 50th

Anniversary in 2022

https://oli.org/tuesday-train-track-trivia-april
New Tools and Resources – Online Rail Safety Pledges

TAKE THE PLEDGE ONLINE:

https://oli.org/pledge/kids

https://oli.org/pledge/adults

Kids Pledge:

Adults Pledge:
RISC (Railroad Investigation and Safety Course) Update

• Current # of RISC Instructor Trainers = 33

• Current # of RISC Instructors = 194

• Since RISC launched, a total of 233 classes have been held 

with 3,817 students completing RISC as of March 2022

• RISC is accredited in 17 states under law enforcement 

training programs

• RISC accredited states include Arizona, California, Colorado, 

Georgia, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, 

Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, 

South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas 

RISC Instructor Training Class Chicago, 2021

2021 New RISC Instructor Locations
OLI/FRA Competitive Grants Fund Trespass Projects

• NY OL received the first OL Innovative 

Grant in 2020 for their trespass prevention 

campaign

• Two Region 1 states - NY and NJ – are 

among just-announced 2022 FRA grant 

recipients

• THANK YOU, FRA for your continued safety 

partnership on these important grants! NY OL Innovative Grant Campaign
Creative State OL Safety Efforts

Connecticut: Suicide Prevention Signage in Stations
Creative State OL Safety Efforts

Vermont: TV Interview
Creative State OL Safety Efforts

South Carolina: Ad campaign for Outdoor Enthusiasts
ILCAD 2022 – June 8-10, Denver, Colorado, USA

https://Ilcad.org

• Trespass and Suicide 

Prevention Pre-Session June 8

• ILCAD June 9

• Technical visit to MxV Rail in 

Pueblo June 10

• Register today at ilcad.org 
Rail Safety Week 2022 – Save the Dates!

Join us across North America 

September 19-25, 2022

Details: oli.org/rsw
Rail Safety Week Partnerships – Key to Success

Example: RSW 2020 MBTA Railcar Safety Messaging Wrap
2022 Projects Underway

Working groups are moving forward on: 

• Transit PSA, Brochure and Social Media

• Photographer/Social Media Influencer PSA 

and supplemental materials

• Delivery Driver PSA
Operation Lifesaver, Inc. Staff

Rachel Maleh

Executive Director

D: (703) 739-1065

M: (301) 717-7553

rmaleh@oli.org

Wende Corcoran

Vice President

D: (703) 739-9126

M: (703) 915-6764

wcorcoran@oli.org

Moriah Whiteman

Manager

Education, Training &

Volunteer Support

D: (703) 519-4502

M: (703) 915-6624

mwhiteman@oli.org

Jennifer DeAngelis

Director, Communications 

& Marketing

D: (703) 739-0284

M: (202) 815-4340

jdeangelis@oli.org
TOGETHER, WE CAN 

#STOPTrackTragedies

(800) 537-6224

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL

OLI.ORG
Fitchburg PD 

Railroad Trespassing 

Enforcement Program 
199

Community & Public Outreach Engagement 

Lt. Jeffrey Howe 

Community Relations 

Fitchburg Police Department

Lieutenant Jeffrey J. Howe is the Community Engagement Unit Commander of the Fitchburg Police Department. Lt. 

Howe is a 29-year member of the Fitchburg Police Department, beginning his career as an officer in 1994. 

He obtained the rank of Sergeant in 2003 and was sworn in as Lieutenant in 2015. During his 29 years of 

service to the city of Fitchburg, Lt. Howe has received several recognitions, including a commendation of 

heroism and two merit awards. He also served as a volunteer first responder in New York City following 

September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Born and raised in Fitchburg, Lt. Howe is a 1988 graduate of Fitchburg 

High School. He continued his education at Fitchburg State University where he obtained a bachelor’s 

degree in sociology and earned a master’s degree in criminal justice from Anna Maria College. He resides in 

central Massachusetts with his wife, Lauren, daughter, Francesca and stepdaughter, Gracie. In his spare 

time, Lt. Howe enjoys being in the outdoors, and spending time with his family and dog, Boo Bear.
200

Community & Public Outreach Engagement 

Kristi Fritscher 

Crime Analyst/Grant Writer 

Fitchburg Police Department

Kristi Fritscher is the grant writer and crime analyst for the Fitchburg Police 

Department. Ms. Fritscher has been with the Fitchburg Police Department working in 

a dual role since 2009. She is a successful grant writer who has been awarded over 

100 grant awards in her career and is currently managing over 1.5 million in grant 

funds. She is a member of the Massachusetts Association of Crime Analysts and the 

International Association of Crime Analysts. Ms. Fritscher has a master’s degree in 

Criminal Justice from the University of Massachusetts Lowell as well as a master’s 

degree from Fitchburg State University in History with a focus on research and writing. 

She resides in Central Massachusetts with her husband Scott and two young sons.
Fitchburg PD 

Railroad Trespassing 

Enforcement Program 
Fitchburg, MA 

 Fitchburg is one of the largest cities in Worcester County with a population 

of 40,882

 Fitchburg is located approximately 40 miles northwest of Boston, and 25 

miles north of Worcester, making it one of the county’s gateway cities

 Home to Fitchburg State University – attracts over 7,000 staff/students to the 

area. Many of whom use the Intermodal Train Station 

 Poverty rate is 16% which is higher than the state’s poverty rate of 10%

 Significant transient and homeless population with little resources to address 

either issue. 
Fitchburg Police Department

 Currently has 73 sworn officers, nearly 40% of department CIT trained

 Averages 50,000 calls for service per year including 200 non-fatal 

overdoses, over 900 mental health related calls for service and dozens of 

panhandling complaints. 

 All sworn staff carry Narcan. About 80 Narcan deployments per year & 15% 

of those who received Nasal Naxolone after a non-fatal overdose were 

homeless

 Averages over 800 Part I Crimes per year including over 300 violent offenses 

including robbery, shootings and stabbings. Majority of property crime 

includes motor vehicle thefts and general larceny
Fitchburg Rail Lines 

 Main Railway Lines – MBTA & Boston & Maine Railroad 

Intermodal Train Station 150 Main St located in downtown 

Fitchburg. Last year there were 242 calls for service at the 

Intermodal Station – most calls for unruly persons, 

drunkenness, overdoses, disturbances and suspicious activity 
Fitchburg Rail Lines 

 Over five miles of FRA regulated rail line in Fitchburg 

Above: River St – Rail line

Left: Majority of rail line in the downtown 

area near Main & Water St. Rail line 

located along wooded area, 

commercial district and residential area
Trespassers by the tracks 

 Approximately 2 to 3 dozen homeless people live in camps near the railroad 

tracks, and up to 50 persons are known to congregate by the tracks. Many of 

these people suffer from mental illness and/or substance abuse. 

 Fights, drunkenness, thefts, disturbances and overdoses are reported by and 

along the tracks on a fairly regular basis. 

 Many trespassers walk across the tracks to get to Market Basket, the liquor store 

or the other retail stores on the other side of the tracks.

 Over the past ten years in Fitchburg, nearly a dozen people have died or have 

been seriously injured as a result of trespassing along the tracks within the city. 
Trespassers by the tracks 

 16 arrests for trespassing along the tracks & 5 summonsed issued since 2016

 Officers respond to nearly 100 calls on or along the tracks every year. These 

calls include disturbances, loitering, overdoses, ATV activity, mental health 

crises including suicide attempts. Suspects in unrelated calls often flee 

towards the tracks to evade police. 

 Intermodal Station: Since 2016, there have been 46 arrests (not related to 

trespassing). 1800 calls for service including 33 suicide attempts, 27 mental 

health crises, 116 fire/ems calls, 25 overdoses, 19 thefts, 5 complaints of 

panhandling and prostitution, 41 trespassing complaints and 13 drug calls. 
Fitchburg Rail Lines – Recent Notable 

Incidents 

 2021: 60 year old male trespasser was hit by the MBTA commuter rail train at 

around noontime. He suffered a serious wound to his head and was taken 

to the hospital. Victim has a history of alcohol abuse. 

 2021: 37 year old female trespasser struck by MBTA commuter rail. Victim 

has a history of MH illness, not seriously injured. 

 2020: 48 year old male trespasser was struck by Boston/Maine (pan am) 

train after he was trying to trying to cross the tracks to get to the liquor store 

on River St. Non life threatening injuries. 
Fitchburg Rail Lines – Recent Notable 

Incidents 

 2019: 58 year old female trespasser was killed on a Saturday afternoon by 

the MBTA commuter train. The deceased left a suicidal note behind. 

 2018: 33 year old male trespasser was injured after he was struck by a MBTA 

train near the tracks by Montouri Gas. Injuries were non-life threatening. 

 2017: 31 year old man was seriously injured after he was struck by a MBTA 

train near the Intermodal. History of alcohol and mental illness. 
Fitchburg Rail Lines – Notable Incidents 

 August 2021: While driving down South St, vehicle’s brakes failed and 

operated crashed onto the train tracks causing a delay. 
Trespassers by the tracks 

Camp located just off the tracks by 

the woods

Homeless camps under the 

bridge by the tracks
Trespassers by the tracks 

More camps 

under the bridge 

by the Main St 

area tracks
FPD Grant Program

 Applied for & received $7500 of grant 

funding in 2019/2020

 Enforcement activities concentrated along 

an approximate two mile stretch of area. 

Primary area – from Intermodal to 5th St 

bridge. Secondary – along River St

 Warnings, citations, arrests to persons 

violating rail related trespass laws. 

Pictured: Primary area of Hot Spot – Railroad Trespass 

Enforcement Activities (Approx 1.5 mile railroad area). Most 

trespassing violations & injuries occur along this track
FPD Grant Program

 Officers spent time along the tracks and 

educate the homeless/vagrant population 

as to the dangers of trespassing and 

loitering by the tracks

 Worked alongside local homeless & 

transitional shelter organizations to offer 

assistance & referrals. 

 Worked with Boston & Maine Railroad PD

Secondary area of Hot Spot – Railroad Trespass Enforcement Activities. 

(Approximate .75 mile railroad area. River St area 
FPD Grant Results

 During this grant program, officers 

interacted with 66 individuals. 60 were 

issued warning in regards to trespassing 

violations, 5 were arrested and 1 was 

summonsed to court for trespassing 

violations. There was one fatal 

overdose along the tracks during the 

program period. 

 Of the 66 interactions, 35 noted that 

the primary reason for trespassing was 

convenience, 30 said it was due to 

homelessness, and 1 said it was for 

recreation. FPD analyst created an activity worksheet to track 

programmatic measures during grant period. 

Worksheet was completed after each deployment
Rail Trail Program 

 The Twin Cities Rail Trail project is approximately 4.7 miles long that would run from downtown 

Leominster to the Intermodal Train Station in Fitchburg 

 Follows the path of the decommissioned Fitchburg & Worcester Railroad line, which later was 

owned by CSX Corp. 

 Trail also extends to the Fitchburg train and bus station. A section of the proposed rail trail will be 

near active railroad tracks, and a section of the trail will have trail users cross the MBTA tracks by 

the Intermodal Station on Main St
217

Daniel Cahill 

Quality of Life Team

Worcester Police Department

Community & Public Outreach Engagement 

Angel Rivera 

Quality of Life Team

Worcester Police Department

Dan Cahill-Team Lead City of Worcester’s Quality of Life Task 

Force. Has been employed by the City of Worcester 

Department of Inspectional Services since June 2005. Worked 

in the city’s Trash Program, as the first Nuisance Inspector and 

in the Housing Division before taking the team over in 2015.

Angel Rivera- Crisis Intervention Officer, Worcester Police 

Department. Been with the WPD since 2006. Service Division, 

Operations Division experience before joining CIT in December 

2015. Currently part of the Crisis Negotiation Team. CIT-TTAC 

Coordinator.

Lt. Matt Early- Worcester Police Department. Been with the 

Department for 26 years. Has experience in the Operations 

Division, Vice Squad and as a Sgt. For the Neighborhood 

Response Team before serving in current role.

Lt. Matt Early 

Worcester Police Department
Worcester Police Department 

Crisis Intervention Team

Neighborhood Response Team

&

City of Worcester Quality of Life Task 

Force

WPD Lieutenant Matthew Early

WPD CIT Officer Angel Rivera

QOL Team Leader Daniel Cahill

Updated 04/2022
How was CIT started?

 1988 Memphis

 NAMI, Memphis Police Department, University 

of Tennessee, community partners, etc.

 Known as the “Memphis” Model

 pre-arrest jail diversion for those in a mental 

illness crisis

 partnership with those in mental health care

 Model reduces both stigma and the need for 

further involvement with the criminal justice 

system

 2015 WPD CIT 
Crisis Intervention Model

 An innovative, first-responder model of police-based crisis intervention training to help 

persons with mental disorders and/or addictions access treatment rather than place 

them in the criminal justice system due to illness-related behaviors. 

 Assure that encounters between police officers and individuals with behavioral health 

disorders are safe for all involved

 Basic Goals: Improve Officer and Public Safety / Jail Diversion / Officer Training / 

Improve Quality of Life.

 Redirect Individuals with Mental Illness / Substance Misuse from the Judicial System to 

the Health Care System. Reduce the number of times an individual with a behavioral 

health disorder has contact with police (help people break the cycle).

 A community partnership of:

 law enforcement and first responders

 mental health and addiction professionals

 individuals who live with mental illness and/or addiction disorders

 their families

 and other advocates

Crisis Intervention

 Individuals with a mental health disorders such as Schizophrenia, 

Bipolar Disorder, thought disorders, and Substance Use Disorders 

are more likely to experience homelessness, suicide, 

incarceration, victimization, and incidents of violence

 Potential risk to themselves or the public 

► Note: Law enforcement has borne the brunt of this crisis. 
CIT Goals

 Fewer repeat calls for service of patrol officers 

with mental health / substance use /Connect to Services

 Enhanced working relationship of patrol officers 

with city crisis workers, community agencies

 Increased involvement - family and friends of 

the Mentally Ill / Substance use as a crisis response 

alternative. 

 Training of Police Officers / Dispatchers / Community 

Health Workers

 Improve the Quality of Life Task Force / Railroad Safety
Quick

Recap:
Goals Achieved 

Since January 2016

Since January of 2016 , The 

Worcester Police Department had 

developed a Crisis Intervention 

Team Training Course. We were 

successful in creating (2) 40 hour 

of CIT Trainings. (1) CIT-Technical 

Training Assisting Center) Central 

MA Police Department

WPD has trained 67 individuals: ( 

WPD Officials / Officers / 

Dispatchers, St. Vincent Public 

Safety, Umass University Police, 

Quality of Life Task Force). (25) 

Central MA Police Officers. 

(Thanks to Community Agencies / 

Partnerships)

Mental Health First Aid Training 

(30 WPD Officers / Officials)

Assisted in the training for the 

Spencer Police Department 

Recovery Coach program. 

Homeless Outreach Program / 

partnership with the Quality of 

Life Task Force
What does the 

CIT training 

include?

Overview of CIT

De-escalation training and exercises

Information sharing from state 

agencies– DMH, DCF, DYS, VA, Elder 

Services, DA’s office, specialty courts

And from community providers – ESP, 

Specific topics – substance use, mental 

illness, domestic violence, suicide , 

developmental disabilities, trauma, 

Vicarious Trauma
Collaboration with Agencies

 The Crisis Intervention Team has worked in collaboration with several agencies to 

include South Middlesex Opportunity Council and the City Quality of Life Task Force to 

address the issue of Homelessness in the City. 

 Community Health Link, Elder Protective Services, Department of Health and Human 

Services, Department of Children and Families, Juvenile Probation, Umass Emergency 

Mental Health, Drug Court, (to Include Serving and assisting families with Section 35), 

Suicide Prevention Coalition, HUB/COR.

Quality of Life Task Force / Homeless Outreach
Quality of Life Task Force

 Established September 2015 by City Manager Ed Augustus

 Interdepartmental Team made up of members from the Worcester Police

Department, Department of Inspectional Services, Department of Public

Works, and Health and Human Services Homeless Outreach Team

 Rapidly Respond and Proactively Patrol the city for homeless sites, trash,

vacant and problem properties, illegal chop shops, needle removal, and other

issues.
Quality of Life Task Force 

 With regards to homeless outreach, our mission is to connect individuals to

the services they need including but not limited to housing/shelter 

Services, mental health and or substance use treatment programs

 QOL brings the outreach to the individuals in need. Twice a week, we 

provide outreach to the homeless population where they stay. Community 

partners attend and start the process of getting people off the streets and 

into shelter

 Clinicians, Recovery Coaches, ER Doctors, Shelter Providers, Substance use 

Treatment, Veterans Services, and Housing Specialists /Case Managers 

often accompany the team
Quality of Life Task Force

 Use the State Sanitary Code and City of Worcester Nuisance Ordinances as

enforcement tools

 Common barriers we see which prevents people from securing

housing/treatment include: not wanting to go to one of the shelters in the

city, lack of trust with outreach workers, length of time it takes from initial

contact to ultimately getting housed, not wanting to get clean, unwillingness

to follow rules, and clients unable to keep appointments

 Continue outreach and offering a hand up, not a hand out

 Influx of Homeless population from other communities 
Quality of Life Task Force

 The team engages with the individuals, offers services, and explains why 

we are there

 We DO NOT remove or break down any site without proper notification

 City will store items removed for up to 30 days when on city property

 QOL works with private landowners for timely removal when they are on

private property
OD Story

MA DOT / Railway

CXS Railway

CXS Railway Illinois

MA DOT / Railway
Skate Park Social Media Trespassers

Neighborhood Response Team

Camera Initiative



Any Questions ?

WPD CIT

508-799-8682

Extension 28182

Quality of Life Task Force

774-696-1811
APRIL 29, 2022

TRESPASSER 

SUMMIT 2022

Kellie Andrews

Vice President Safety, Security & Environment
243

Kellie Andrews 

Vice President of Safety 

Keolis Commuter Rail Services

Community & Public Outreach Engagement 

Kellie Andrews has a career that spans 23 years in the transport domains. Her analytical nature was a natural fit for 

accident/incident investigation, and she ultimately found a passion in Systems Safety. Kellie was on the development 

team for the first fully certified Safety Management System in the United Arab Emirates and went on to enhance the 

Safety System with Dubai Airports introducing robust investigation methodologies, operational risk management and 

human factors. In 2011, she explored the impact of national culture on safety culture in the United Arab Emirates and 

continued the cultural focus with work on effective Team Resource Management in multi-cultural environments. She has 

worked on the integration of drones into civil airspace, emergency response and planning, airspace management in 

fires/floods, airspace design, and human factors test planning to name a few. In 2016, Kellie was the subject matter 

expert in the design of a new industry leading Incident Investigation Course, that was sponsored by the International Civil 

Aviation Organization (ICAO). Kellie was invited to South Africa in 2018 to participate in ICAO’s inaugural Global Gender 

Summit, where the industry gathered to strategize and address gender balance within the industry. She is a full member 

of the International Society of Air Safety Investigators and as an avid learner, holds a bachelor’s degree in Management, a 

master’s in Science & Technology (Safety) and is currently completing a Masters in Human Factors. Kellie pivoted to rail in 

April 2021, joining Keolis Commuter Services as Vice President of Safety, Security & Environment, where her focus in the 

last year has been to establish and enhance governance for the future direction of systems safety and sustainability. 
APRIL 29, 2022

TRESPASSER 

SUMMIT 2022

Kellie Andrews

Vice President Safety, Security & Environment
245

 Program implementation by Keolis in 2014 (first six months in operations)

o 23 locations, ~87 cubic yards of material removed, >2000 needles, Yawkey Station >2 cubic yards of 

MSW, car parts and bio haz removed. 

o Specific areas were identified for monitoring (Brockton, Boston and Lynn)

 Environmental Department developed program in 2015 to address recurring demand of sensitive 

communities and at-risk locations & leads coordination between internal and external parties for cleanup / 

removal and disposal. 

 Engineering Department leads all station cleaning and collection of needles

 Transit Police aligns protection and liaise with different community organizations

o Intervention and Community organization form part of the process from planning to post operation

SAFE ROW: Sensitive Communities Management
246

 At-risk stations are monitored weekly by Engineering department and at times daily removal of needles is 

required

 At-risk recurring sensitive communities are monitored/identified by Engineering and EnvironmentalFairmount Line (3 stations), Lowell, Brockton, Boston, Lynn, Somerville, Gloucester

 Resources

o Transit Police assigns officers pre and during operation to secure areas and liaise with other PDs

o Community organizations provide support by engaging directly with members

o Boston, Cambridge, Somerville and other Police Departments support Transit Police 

o Keolis provides cleanup crews, track protection, equipment and coordination

o Cities and Towns Board of Health and other depending on location

SAFE ROW: Sensitive Communities Management
247

 Since 2017, a Coalition was initiated to address criminal activities along the BU bridge and large 

sensitive communities along Memorial Bridge:

o Transit Police: Francis Murray & Steven D. O’Hara

o State Police: John Kiley & John Kelly

o Cambridge PD: Anthony Bongiorno & Robert Lowe; Elizabeth Mengers (City)

o DCR: Kevin Thibeault & Janice Parlon

o Boston University: Robert McCarthy & Kelly O’Connell

o ARE (Private Company): Chris Wagner

o Bay Cove

SAFE ROW: Sensitive Communities Management
248

Total sensitive communities' materials removal and illegal dumping related waste removed from ROW 2015-Sept 

2021- >$400K

ROW CLEANUPS AND WASTE REMOVAL
249

SAFE ROW: Sensitive Communities Management

Start of Cleanup: 09/08/2021, 8am 

End of cleanup: 09/09/2021, 10am 

Along Grand Junction, behind 640 Memorial Drive, Cambridge

 Collection of over 5 tons of waste and (4) 5-gallon buckets of used needles. 
April 29, 2022

RAIL

MOVING AMERICA FORWARD

Questions for our Panelist 
April 29, 2022

RAIL

MOVING AMERICA FORWARD

Break 
April 29, 2022

RAIL

MOVING AMERICA FORWARD

Finding Opportunities

How do we pay for this strategies? 
253

USDOT Finding Opportunities 

Sergio Coronado

Transportation Industry Analyst

Federal Railroad Administration

Sergio Coronado joined FRA, RPD-21 as a Transportation 

Industry Analyst in 2022. Before coming to FRA, he 

worked at the Region 1 FTA Office in Boston as 

Transportation Program Specialist, where he worked 

closely with various stakeholders such as the Connecticut 

Department of Transportation, the Vermont Agency of 

Transportation and various small transit agencies on 

planning and program development. Sergio also served 

as the Tribal Liaison to the New England region working 

directly with the 9 federally recognized tribes in the area 

assisting in the development of their transit programs. 

He received his Masters in Public Administration from 

UMass Boston and undergrad degree from the University 

of California, Merced. He also spent six years in the Army 

Reserves, deploying overseas as a Civil Affairs Officer in 

2020-2021. 
254

Departmental Funding Programs
255

USDOT Grant Program Opportunities

Programs Purpose Appropriated

Additional 

Authorized Over 

Five Years

Highway 

Trust Fund Total

National/Regional 

Significance 

(MEGA Projects)

Support multi-modal, multijurisdictional projects of national or 

regional significance.

$5 billion ($1 billion 

annually)

$10 billion ($2 

billion annually) N/A $15 billion

Rebuilding American 

Infrastructure with 

Sustainability and Equity 

(RAISE)

Support surface transportation projects 

of local and/or regional significance.

$7.5 billion ($1.5 billion 

annually)

$7.5 billion ($1.5 

billion annually) N/A $15 billion

Infrastructure for 

Rebuilding America 

(INFRA)

Offers aid to freight infrastructure by 

providing funding to state and local 

government for projects of regional or 

national significance. 

Cap on multimodal projects has been 

raised to 30% of program funds.

$3.2 billion $6 billion $4.8 billion $14 billion

SMART Grants

Provides grants to conduct 

demonstration projects focused on 

advanced smart city or community 

technologies and systems in a variety of 

communities to improve transportation 

efficiency and safety.

$500 million ($100 million 

annually)

$500 million ($100 

million annually) N/A $1 billion
256

USDOT Multimodal Projects Discretionary Grant NOFO

• On March 23, DOT announced $2.9B through a combined NOFO to reduce the 

application burden applicants with a single application for three programs.

o MEGA funds projects that are too large or complex for traditional program and may cut across 

multiple modes of transportation. ($1B – new program). 

o INFRA funds multimodal freight and rail projects, focuses on improving safety, generating 

economic benefits, reducing congestion, enhancing resiliency. ($1.55B – existing program).

o RURAL funds highway, bridge, and tunnel projects that help improve freight, safety, and 

provide or increase access to an agricultural, commercial, energy, or transportation facilities 

that support the economy of a rural area. ($300M – new program).

• DOT hosted several webinars on how to apply, recordings and presentation 

materials are available online.

• NOFO deadline is May 23 

https://www.transportation.gov/grants/mpdg-announcement
257

Rail Goals and 

Funding Programs
258

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law: Rail Development Goals

Renew Amtrak’s fleet & facilities 

and deliver high-quality intercity 

passenger rail service

Modernize the 

Northeast Corridor

Bring world-class passenger 

rail service to regions across 

the country

Build the foundation for a 

long-term rail program

Grow a safer, cleaner, more 

equitable rail system
259

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law: Rail Funding Overview
260

FRA Grant Program Opportunities Under BIL

Programs Purpose Appropriated Additional Authorized Over 

Five Years Total

Consolidated Rail 

Infrastructure and Safety 

Improvements (CRISI)

To fund projects that improve the safety, 

efficiency, or reliability of intercity passenger and 

freight rail.

$5 billion 

($1 billion annually)

$5 billion 

($1 billion annually) $10 billion

Railroad Crossing 

Elimination (New)

To promote highway rail or pathway-rail grade crossing 

improvement projects that focus on improving the 

safety and mobility of people and goods.

$3 billion 

($600 million annually)

$2.5 billion 

($500 million annually) $5.5 billion

Federal-State 

Partnership for 

Intercity Passenger Rail

(Significantly Changed)

To fund capital projects that reduce the state of good 

repair backlog, improve performance, or expand or 

establish new intercity passenger rail service, including 

privately operated intercity passenger rail service if an 

eligible applicant is involved.

$36 billion 

($7.2 billion annually)

$7.5 billion 

($1.5 billion annually) $43.5 billion

Restoration & Enhancement To provide operating assistance to initiate, restore, or 

enhance intercity passenger rail service.

$250 million 

($50 million annually from Amtrak 

National Network fund)

$250 million 

($50 million annually) $500 million

Interstate Rail Compacts 

(New)

This program will provide funding for interstate rail 

compacts' administrative costs and to conduct railroad 

systems planning, promotion of intercity passenger 

rail operations, and the preparation of grant 

applications.

$15 million

($3 million annually)

$15 million

($3 million annually) $30 million
261

FRA Grant Programs
262

Railroad Crossing Elimination – Program Overview 

• To fund highway-rail or pathway-rail grade crossing improvement projects that focus on improving the safety and 

mobility of people and goods.

Year

Currently 

Available 

Funding (M)

Status

FY22 $600 NOFO Expected Late Spring 2022

FY22

Appropriations $600

Authorized $500

BIL Authorization & Appropriations in millions (M)

Status of Funding Opportunities

NOFO: Notice of Funding Opportunity

PROGRAM PURPOSE

Upcoming Funding Opportunities
263

• States, including the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and other U.S. territories 

and possessions.

• Political subdivision of a State.

• Federally recognized Indian Tribe.

• A unit of local government or a group of local governments.

• A public port authority.

• A metropolitan planning organization.

• A group of the entities described above.

Railroad Crossing Elimination – Eligible Applicants

ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS
264

• Grade separation or closure including through use of a bridge, 

embankment, tunnel or combination thereof.

• Track relocation.

• Improvement or installation of protective devices, signals, signs, or other 

measures to improve safety related to a separation, closure, or track 

relocation project.

• Other means to improve the safety if related to the mobility of people and 

goods at highway-rail grade crossings (including technological solutions).

• The planning, environmental review, and design of an eligible project type.

Railroad Crossing Elimination – Eligible Projects

ELIGIBLE PROJECT CRITERIA
265

CRISI – Program Overview 

• To fund projects that improve the safety, efficiency, and/or reliability of intercity passenger and freight rail systems

Year Available 

Funding (M) Status

FY18 (PTC) $250 Awards announced August and December 2018

FY18 $318 Awards announced June 2019

FY19 $244 Awards announced March 12, 2020

FY20 $311 Awards announced September 23, 2020

FY21 $362 Awards expected Spring 2022

FY22 $1,000 Notice of Funding Opportunity expected Summer 2022

FY18 FY19 FY20 FY21

Authorization $230 $255 $330 $330

Appropriation $592.5 $255 $325 $375

Authorization & Appropriations (M)

Status of Funding Opportunities









GRANT PURPOSE

CRISI ‒ Recent & Upcoming Funding Opportunities
266

• A State (including the District of Columbia) or group of States. 

• An Interstate Compact.

• Public agencies or publicly chartered authorities established by 1 or more States.

• Political subdivision of a State.

• Amtrak or other intercity passenger rail carrier.

• Class II or III railroads and associations that represent a Class II or III railroad.

• Any rail carrier or equipment manufacturer in partnership with at least one state entity, 

public agency, and/or local government.

• Federally recognized Indian Tribe.

• The Transportation Research Board (TRB) together with any entity with which it contracts in 

the development of rail-related research, including cooperative research programs.

• A university transportation center engaged in rail-related research.

• A non-profit labor organization representing a class or craft of employees of rail carriers or 

rail carrier contractors.

CRISI – Program Overview 

ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS
267

• Wide Range of Rail Capital Projects

• Congestion mitigation

• Ridership growth facilitation 

• Enhancements to multimodal connections

• Improvements to short-line or regional 

railroad infrastructure

• Railroad Safety Technology 

• Track, Station, and Equipment Improvements for 

Intercity Passenger Rail

• Grade Crossing Improvements

• Rail Line Relocation and Improvement 

• Regional and Corridor Service Planning and 

corresponding Environmental Analyses

• Safety Programs and Institutes

• Research

• Workforce Development and Training

• New in BIL: 

• Measures that prevent trespassing

• Preparation of emergency plans for 

hazardous materials are 

transported by rail

• Rehab or procurement of 

locomotives, provided that such 

activities result in a significant 

reduction of emissions.

At least 25% of funds is reserved for 

rural projects

CRISI – Program Overview 

ELIGIBLE PROJECT CRITERIA
268

Federal-State Partnership (non-NEC) – Program Overview 

• To fund capital projects that reduce the state of good repair backlog, improve performance, or expand or establish 

new intercity passenger rail service, including privately operated intercity passenger rail service if an eligible applicant 

is involved.

Year Available 

Funding (B) Status

FY21 $ Awards expected Summer 2022

FY22 $2.4 Notice of Funding Opportunity expected Fall 2022

FY22 FY23 FY24 FY25 FY26

Appropriation $2.4 $2.4 $2.4 $2.4 $2.4

Authorization $.75* $.75 $.75 $.75 $.75

Authorization & Appropriations (B)

Status of Funding Opportunities

GRANT PURPOSE

FSP ‒ Recent & Upcoming Funding Opportunities

* $7,500 million authorized over 5 years with at least 45% for NEC projects and 45% for non-NEC projects. For illustrative purposes, a 50% split is shown.
269

• A State (including the District of Columbia) or group of States. 

• An Interstate Compact.

• Public agencies or publicly chartered authorities established by 1 or more States.

• Political subdivision of a State.

• Amtrak, acting on its own behalf or under a cooperative agreement with 1 or more States.

• Class II or III railroads and associations that represent a Class II or III railroad.

• Federally recognized Indian Tribe.

• Any combination of the entities above.

Federal-State Partnership (non-NEC) – Program Overview 

ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS
270

• A project to replace, rehabilitate, or repair 

infrastructure, equipment, or a facility used for 

providing intercity passenger rail service to bring such 

assets into a state of good repair.

• A project to improve intercity passenger rail service 

performance, including reduced trip times, increased 

train frequencies, higher operating speeds, improved 

reliability, expanded capacity, reduced congestion, 

electrification, and other improvements, as 

determined by the Secretary.

• A project to expand or establish new 

intercity passenger rail service.

• A group of related projects as described 

above. 

• The planning, environmental review, and 

final design of an eligible project or 

group of projects described above.

Federal-State Partnership (non-NEC) – Program Overview 

ELIGIBLE PROJECT CRITERIA
271

FRA Application Process
272

Competitive Grants Application Process

NOTICE OF FUNDING 

OPPORTUNITY (NOFO) 

ANNOUNCED

PHASE 1 TYPICAL TIMEFRAME: UP TO 1 MONTH

STEP

1

Get a Dun&Bradstreet

Number (DUNS)

STEP

2 Register with System for

Award Management (SAM)

To register, go to

www.sam.gov

After registering, send SAM:

• A notarized letter

• An Employer Identification Number (EIN)/ 

Tax Identification Number (TIN)

OR fedgov.dnb.com

866-705-5711
273

STEP

3 Create an Authorized Organization

Representative (AOR) profile on Grants.gov

Grants.gov will send

email containing a 

temporary registration 

code to AOR

PHASE 2 TYPICAL TIMEFRAME: 1 MONTH

STEP

4 Complete and submit application to Grants.gov 

addressing all NOFO requirements

AOR must respond to the 

registration email to complete 

the registration process

APPLICATION RESOURCES

• FRA NOFO

• Workspace on Grants.gov

• FRA Training and Guidance
274

Best Practices and Next Steps
275

How to Apply and Available Grant Resources

https://railroads.dot.gov/grantadministration/applyinggrants/competitive-grantsapplication-process

Information on how to apply:

https://railroads.dot.gov/railnetwork-development/trainingguidance/webinars-0

Webinars and Technical Assistance:

https://www.whitehouse.gov/wpcontent/uploads/2022/01/BUILDI

NG-A-BETTERAMERICA_FINAL.pdf#page=55

White House Guidebook:
276

FRA Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Website

For more information about the 

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and 

rail, please visit our website.

https://railroads.dot.gov/BIL
Contact Us

Federal Railroad Administration

1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE

Washington, DC 20590

Connect with us USDOTFRA

Sergio Coronado

Email: sergio.coronado@dot.gov

Michail Grizkewitsch

Email: michail.grizkewitsch@dot.gov
278

Meredith Slesinger 

Administrator for Rail and Transit Division 

MA DOT

MA DOT Funding Opportunities 

Meredith Slesinger joined MassDOT in August 2020 and now serves as the Rail and 

Transit Administrator. The Rail & Transit Division oversees the Commonwealth’s 

passenger and freight rail programs and the 15 Regional Transit Authorities.

Previously, she was the senior director of strategic planning at Amtrak and managed 

special projects such as developing Amtrak’s five-year business plans and staffing the 

Board of Directors.

As the director of policy and outreach at the Northeast Corridor Commission, she 

authored the Commission’s first cost sharing policy, establishing the first dedicated 

capital funding for Northeast Corridor infrastructure and a policy framework for 

coordinated regional planning. She also managed the Commission’s legislative affairs and 

media relations. Prior to working at the Commission, she was part of the government 

affairs team at the American Public Transportation Association. 
FRA Greater Boston Railroad Trespassing Summit

MassDOT Funding Opportunities

Meredith Slesinger

Rail & Transit Administrator

April 27, 2022
Industrial Rail Access Program

The purpose of the program is to provide funding for projects that increase 

access to rail freight service and preserve or stimulate economic development 

through the generation of new or expanded rail service. 

Economic development could include: 

 New commercial development, 

 Retaining/growing businesses in Massachusetts, 

 Retaining manufacturing jobs, or 

 Creating new jobs through increased efficiency, production capacity, or 

improved distribution logistics. 
Industrial Rail Access Program 

Overview / History

Competitive grant program created by the Massachusetts Legislature in

2012.

Provides financial assistance for investment in rail improvement projects

connected to the Massachusetts freight rail transportation network and

focused on increasing or improving rail transportation to Massachusetts

shippers.

New England Recycling Transfer Station PVRR DCP Track
Industrial Rail Access Program 

Overview / History

MassDOT can award up to $3 million in funding annually. Grants require a

minimum 40% share from local sponsor (Railroad, Shipper, Local Government)

Since 2013 awards have supported 51 projects totaling ~ $18 million

In 2022 the seven projects awarded funding will result in:

1. Adding of over 5,000 annual railcar deliveries supporting MA businesses

2. Eliminating 19,000 annual truck trips on the Commonwealth’s roads

3. Supporting over 100 new jobs in Massachusetts

PVRR Easthampton Yard (New Siding) Sherwood Lumber (Train being unloaded)
 Provide a sustained public benefit or facilitate economic growth through improved use of 

the rail transportation network within the Commonwealth; 

 Have Independent Utility; and 

 Have an estimated useful life of at least 20 years. 

In addition, IRAP funds may be used for:

• engineering/design services,

• environmental permitting, and

• limited right-of-way acquisition needed to ready a project for construction.

Rail safety and environmental improvements can be eligible elements of an IRAP project to

the extent they are required to achieve the goals of the IRAP project.

283

Eligible Projects
 Application period will open soon

 Applications are available on 

MassDOT website

www.mass.gov/industrial-rail-access-program

 Anticipate awards in July

284

FY23 - Industrial Rail Access Program
Grade Crossing Action Plan

Massachusetts recently 

completed a Highway-Rail Grade 

Crossing Action Plan

The goal of the Action Plan is to 

identify specific strategies 

(implemented over the next 5 

years) that will reduce collisions, 

accidents or incidents between 

trains or on-track equipment, and 

vehicles, pedestrians, or bicyclists 

at grade crossings.
Grade Crossing Action Plan

History of Grade Crossing Incidents and Fatalities in Massachusetts
Crossing Safety Improvement Strategies

1. Improve/maintain safety at the most highly-used crossings

2. Minimize pedestrian risk at crossings 

3. Reduce incidents that involve grade crossing area incursions 

4. Reduce incidents that involve drivers on the tracks 

5. Reduce risk for older drivers at grade crossings 

6. Reduce the total number of grade crossings and/or the risk exposure 

from grade crossings across the Commonwealth. 

7. Continue raising public awareness or the dangers associated with 

trains, railroad tracks and crossings.
Rail-Highway Crossing Program

(Section 130)

Grade Crossing Safety Improvement Program – Administered by

Massachusetts Department of Transportation utilizing Federal Highway

Administration Funding

Massachusetts receives approximately $2.5 million annually to support

grade crossing safety improvements. – Typically supports 5 to 7 projects

annually.

Historically required 10% state/railroad/local share – BIL modified

program to be 100% federal funding.
Rail-Highway Crossing Program

(Section 130)

Typical Activities:

 Installation / Upgrade of highway-railroad grade crossing signals.

 Improvement to crossing surfaces

 Installation of pedestrian and vehicular gates. 

 Installation of regulatory signage (W10 series, yield/stop signs and 

crossbucks) 

 Pavement markings

 Traffic signal interconnection/preemption. 
In Massachusetts grade crossing signage and pavement markings on

public roadways are the responsibility of municipalities.

For all new installations/upgrade projects – new signage and pavement

markings included.

MassDOT will provide technical support for municipal compliance with

Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD)

Rail-Highway Crossing Program

Municipal Coordination
Additional Activities – all requiring close coordination with municipalities:

 Support for crossing consolidations / closures.

 Installation of grade separations at crossings or repair of existing 

grade separations. 

 Sight distance or geometric improvements. 

Rail-Highway Crossing Program

Municipal Coordination
Interested in working with Municipalities to identify candidate

crossing closures / consolidations / grade separations.

Benefits for crossing closure:

 Public safety benefits by closing, consolidating, or grade separating atgrade crossings. The safest at-grade crossing is one that does not exist. 

 Elimination of community disruption resulting from train horns.

 Infrastructure improvements supported through Section 130 program

 Municipality can be provided an incentive payment of up to $100,000

Crossing Elimination Projects that require significant capital 

improvements should be considered for new Crossing Elimination 

Program

Rail-Highway Crossing Program

Crossing Elimination
April 29, 2022

RAIL

MOVING AMERICA FORWARD

Questions for our Panelist 
294

• Next Steps

• Topics for future webinars/meetings

• Fall of 2022

Closing 

Thank you to our safety partners at the MBTA & Keolis 

Commuter Rail Services for assisting with this summit.

Norma Griffiths

Norma.Griffiths@dot.gov

Federal Railroad Administration
Contact Us

Federal Highway Administration

Federal Railroad Administration

1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE

Washington, DC 20590

Connect with us at USDOTFRA

Monica Shaw

Monica.shaw @ dot.gov

Federal Railroad Administration

Michail Grizkewitsch

Michail.Grizkewitsch@dot.gov

Federal Railroad Administration