Congressmen Maxwell Frost and Brian Mast Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Improve Rail Safety
With Florida ranking third nationwide for pedestrian train injuries, the Safer Rail Crossing Act will strengthen deployment of federally-funded rail crossing safety projects.
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10) and Congressman Brian Mast (FL-21) introduced the Safer Rail Crossing Act, legislation aimed at improving rail safety, reducing accidents, and saving lives at railway crossings.
In 2023, there were nearly 1,900 accidents at railroad and roads or pedestrian walkway intersections. Florida ranks third in the country for the number of pedestrians injured in train accidents as of last year, underscoring the need for stronger safety measures.
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)’s Railway-Highway Crossing Program (RHCP) provides funds for the elimination of hazards at public railway crossings. Since 2019, of the 723 RHCP projects completed, there has been a reduction of accidents at 597, or 82% of these crossings. These lifesaving gains have been achieved even as traffic on both roads and railways has increased, demonstrating the program’s effectiveness in improving safety.
However, states and local governments using this program have reported needing better guidance, technical assistance, and examples when it comes to projects aimed at making grade crossings safer for pedestrians. This gap has made it harder for communities to fully utilize RHCP funds for pedestrian-focused improvements.
The Safer Rail Crossing Act would address this need by instructing the Federal Highway Administration to issue clear guidance on the types of pedestrian safety projects eligible under the RHCP. By providing states and local governments with better tools and clarity, the bill will help communities more effectively deploy proven safety solutions, prevent accidents, and save lives.
“Across the country, folks are increasingly relying on rail to get where they need to go, and as demand grows, so do concerns about rail safety. The Safer Rail Crossing Act builds on the proven success of the Railway-Highway Crossing Program and gives states and local governments the guidance they need to invest in safety solutions that saves lives. In turn, this creates an environment where both pedestrians and commuters can move freely without fear and ensures rail remains a safe and vital part of America’s infrastructure and economy,” said Congressman Frost
“Florida’s 21st District is all too familiar with the tragic consequences of railroad crossing malfunctions and unsafe pedestrian crossings,” said Rep. Brian Mast. “Serious safety concerns exist throughout Florida’s 21st District and across the nation. With high-speed rail cutting through our communities and freight trains passing through daily, the Safer Rail Crossing Act will help ensure crossings meet appropriate safety standards—making grade crossings safer for pedestrians and reducing preventable, fatal accidents.”
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