NEWBURGH – The Federal Railroad Administration should review current
standards for the time between the activation of train warning signals
and the distance of an oncoming train, US Senator Charles Schumer said
Friday. The Senate minority leader and frequent visitor to the Hudson
Valley when speaking out on issues, was back in Newburgh on Friday, assessing
the damage from Tuesday’s derailment.
“The latest grade crossing accident in Newburgh is another example
of the dire need to make meaningful improvements in rail safety,”
he said.
“We dodged a bullet on Tuesday as this accident could have been
far worse.” The senator said that is why he is urging the FRA “to
prioritize a review of safety standards for crossing gate activation times
and warning systems, and to engage in an outreach campaign with local
businesses to better coordinate how and when they move equipment across
railroad gates.”
This week’s incident occurred with the freight train was traveling
southbound near the New Windsor town border and struck a rail maintenance
vehicle that had gotten stuck on the tracks.
Schumer also said he would push for $25 million in grants to provide assistance
to states, local government, and passenger and freight carriers to improve
the safety of rail infrastructure, including grade crossings and tracks.
