SMART Update On Windsor Station Construction

WINDSOR, CA — Construction of the Windsor extension is in full swing. SMART’s contractor, Stacy and Witbeck, Inc., is preparing the subgrade and beginning to place ballast along the rail corridor between Airport Boulevard and the Town of Windsor. Once the ballast is installed on the subgrade, construction of the railroad tracks will begin, SMART said in an update Monday.

"Now is the time to begin thinking about railroad safety," SMART said. "For your safety, it’s critical to stay away from construction activity along the railroad corridor and to choose a new path of travel."

In partnership with the Town of Windsor, SMART is installing a pedestrian undercrossing approximately 750 feet south of the roundabout at Windsor River Road as a designated railroad crossing for the surrounding neighborhood.

Once railroad construction is complete, trains will begin operating on the tracks. For several months, the train control and safety systems will be tested through repeated train movements.

"When you begin to see trains on the tracks, it will be imperative to walk or ride your bike on the SMART multiuse pathway and to ONLY cross the tracks are designated railroad crossing," SMART said.

According to SMART, now is the time to talk to young children at home about rail safety and how to navigate through the community, following these rail safety tips:

• Only cross the tracks at designated railroad crossings.
• Always wait for the bells and lights to stop and the gate to rise before crossing the tracks.
• Stay alert around trains and tracks. Don’t be distracted by cell phones or headphones.
• Never walk on or along the railroad tracks; it is dangerous and illegal.
• Never stop your car on the railroad tracks.
• Approach all crossings carefully and be prepared to stop behind the crossing gates when the crossing signals are activated.
• Flashing lights and bells at crossings will activate before the gate arm comes down to give motorists enough time to safely clear the intersection.
• Don’t risk it. Never cross the tracks until you are sure you have enough room to make it safely through to the other side.
• Bicycle wheels can get caught between the rail and roadway: Cross at a 90-degree angle. If that is not possible, walk, don’t ride, across the tracks.
• See tracks, think train!

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