South Tidewater News

With the arrival of baseball season and numerous festivals in downtown Norfolk, there is an increased emphasis on rail safety awareness. The Tide light rail, operated by Hampton Roads Transit (HRT), serves this area and features 26 rail crossings. Its tracks are embedded in downtown areas frequented by vehicles and pedestrians, including locations such as Harbor Park, Scope Arena, Chrysler Hall Theater, and Town Point Park.

To enhance public safety around these tracks, HRT has partnered with Operation Lifesaver, Inc. (OLI) through a competitive grant from OLI and the Federal Transit Administration. They are promoting a rail safety pledge available for adults at https://oli.org/pledge/adults and for children at https://oli.org/pledge/kids.

"Safety is our top priority and the first of our core values," stated William E. Harrell, HRT's President and CEO. "This safety pledge will encourage our customers and residents to increase safety awareness to minimize any incidents involving the Tide’s tracks."

The initiative includes a multi-media communications campaign featuring digital advertising, public outreach activities, safety events, and updated signage along the 7.4-mile-long track route.

HRT advises individuals to use designated crosswalks and sidewalks when accessing stations. While waiting on platforms, it is important to stand behind red rumbled strips. Additionally, standing on or near tracks should be avoided since light rail trains overhang by three feet on each side. It is also recommended that small children be held securely while waiting for trains.

For more information about The Tide schedules and stations, visit gohrt.com/routes/light-rail.