Don't Walk on the Railroad Tracks in Rohnert Park

Train authorities are warning the community to stay away from the railroad tracks that cut through Rohnert Park.

Officials from Sonoma-Marina Area Rail Transit sent a letter to parents this week, after several contractors noticed kids playing and adults walking along the tracks.

"Please be advised that we are rebuilding the railroad tracks in Sonoma County and that children and young adults should not walk or play anywhere near the tracks or construction equipment," SMART said in a statement. "As we rebuild the railroad tracks, trains and construction equipment will be active on the railroad. Please tell your children to stay away from any and all railroad tracks and equipment in your neighborhood."

Check out the safety tips below from SMART, as construction begins for the train. Most of the activity for the Rohnert Park station is near the intersection of Rohnert Park Expressway and State Farm Drive.

Safety tips: 

l. Keep away from railroad tracks and construction equipment. 

2. Cross all railroad tracks at designated public crossings with either a crossing 
sign, flashing red lights or a gate. 

3. Flashing red lights indicate a train is approaching from either direction. Never walk around or behind lowered gates at a crossing, and DO NOT cross the tracks until the lights have stopped flashing and it's safe to do so. 

4. Do not hunt, fish or jump from railroad trestles. There is only enough  clearance on the tracks for a train to pass. Trestles are not meant to be sidewalks or pedestrian bridges! Never walk, run, cycle or operate ATVs on railroad tracks, bridges, the rights-of-way or through tunnels. 

5. Do not attempt to hop aboard railroad equipment at any time. 

6. Be aware trains do not follow set schedules. Any Time is Train Time! 

7. Trains overhang the tracks by at least five feet in both directions; loose straps hanging from rail cars may extend even further, Stay out of the right-of-way. 

8. It can take a mile or more to stop a train, so a locomotive engineer who 
suddenly sees someone on the tracks will likely be unable to stop in time.