VRE strongly urges you to prevent a needless tragedy. Never walk on or operate any kind of vehicle on railroad tracks. Never cross tracks on foot unless escorted by a railroad employee or unless you are at a designated crossing. Perhaps most importantly, always obey signals at grade crossings. Be sure that you will be able to clear the tracks completely as you cross them.
Trains are three feet wider than the tracks on either side.
Operation Lifesaver, based in Alexandria and across the street from VRE offices, is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating the public and preventing railroad crossing accidents and to promoting general railroad safety. Operation Lifesaver, which has programs in 49 states, has been credited with helping to save 10,000 lives and preventing 40,000 injuries since its inception in 1972 in Idaho. VRE is an integral park of Operation Lifesaver in Virginia. Our Franconia-Springfield station is located on a curve in the tracks. Freight trains and Amtrak trains can go as fast as 70mph through the station.