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WHEREAS, Pittsburgh has a rich rail history rooted in steel, manufacturing, and logistics that helped shape the U.S. economy. The city remains a key part of the national rail network, served by major carriers like Norfolk Southern and CSX, as well as regional lines such as Buffalo & Pittsburgh Railroad, supporting industries including steel, energy, and freight; and,
WHEREAS, rail is one of the most fuel-efficient and eco-friendly freight modes, capable of moving one ton over 470 miles per gallon of fuel, helping reduce highway congestion, lower emissions, and advance sustainability goals; and,
WHEREAS, public safety around railroad tracks and crossings remains a shared responsibility; According to the Federal Railroad Administration in 2023, Pennsylvania ranked among the top 15 states for highway-rail grade crossing incidents, with 47 collisions, 7 injuries, and 4 fatalities; and,
WHEREAS, organizations like Operation Lifesaver, PennDOT, and the Federal Railroad Administration are actively working to reduce incidents through education and safety grants; and,
WHEREAS, the rail industry continues to invest in 21st century safety technologies, including positive train control (PTC) systems, automated track inspection, hotbox detectors, and AI-driven monitoring, helping to make rail one of the safest modes of transportation for goods and passengers alike; and,
WHEREAS, the City of Pittsburgh supports all efforts to raise awareness of safe practices near railroad crossings, including never stopping on tracks, obeying crossing signals, avoiding trespassing on rail property, and promoting school and community education efforts about rail safety; and,
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NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council urges all residents to remain vigilant and practice safe conduct near rail crossings and rights-of-way, and to actively support initiatives that maintain the safety, efficiency, and economic importance of Pittsburgh's rail network within our regional trans...
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