This week is See Tracks? Think Train! Week, a nationwide campaign to raise awareness about rail safety — and a timely reminder that smarter infrastructure can help prevent tragedies at railroad crossings.
In 2024, Washington saw 47 collisions at grade crossings — a stark indicator of the risk facing drivers and pedestrians at intersections where rail lines meet public roads. Even more alarming, our state ranks among the top 10 nationwide for rail trespassing casualties. These are not just statistics — they represent real lives and real families affected by preventable incidents.
One way to address this is through the federal Rail Crossing Elimination (RCE) Program, which provides funding to communities for safety improvements like overpasses, advanced warning systems, and grade separations. Cities like Centralia — with multiple busy crossings in residential and commercial areas — could benefit greatly from these resources.
That’s why I urge local officials in Centralia and surrounding communities to explore RCE grant opportunities. These projects can save lives, ease traffic congestion, and strengthen local economies. At the same time, Congress must fully fund the RCE Program in the upcoming surface transportation reauthorization bill.
Railroads already invest billions in safety upgrades, but they can’t solve crossing challenges alone.
Federal investment is essential to protect communities and keep trains moving safely and efficiently.
During See Tracks? Think Train! Week, let’s commit to action — not just awareness. Lives depend on it.
Nate Kaplan
GoRail state director — Washington
