Milby High School Rail Safety: Community Reacts to Train Curfew End

Tragedy and Safety Measures

• 💔 The Milby High School community is mourning the death of 17-year-old student Sergio Rodriguez, who was killed attempting to cross train tracks near campus.
• 🚧 In response to the tragedy, Union Pacific implemented safety upgrades including an improved sidewalk and fence, and a temporary curfew on train traffic in the area.

End of Train Curfew and Community Concerns

• 🚂 Union Pacific has ended the train curfew, meaning train traffic will return to normal schedules, including during student arrival and dismissal times.
• 😔 State Senator Carol Alvarado expressed disappointment, urging reconsideration of the curfew's end and highlighting the emotional impact on students who lost a classmate.

Long-Term Solutions and Funding

• 🌉 Alvarado advocates for grade separations at rail crossings, such as underpasses or overpasses, as a more permanent solution.
• 💰 A $250 million state grant program will soon be available for cities and counties to fund such infrastructure projects, including pedestrian bridges.
• 📍 One pedestrian bridge is already in planning and funded for Milby High School, with cities and counties able to apply for grant money starting September 1st.

Student Perspectives

• 😥 Students, like one identified as Sed, find it sad that significant safety improvements like barriers and bridges are only being implemented after a student's death.
• ⚠️ Union Pacific states they are educating students and families about rail safety and have billboards reminding people to always expect a train.