This week, several state agencies are making sure drivers, pedestrians and cyclists know the importance of those signs around the region’s railroad crossings.

On Monday, the Utah Transit Authority sent out a press release announcing that it has once again partnered with other state agencies, such as Utah Operation Lifesaver, the Utah Department of Transportation, Utah Highway Patrol and Utah Railway, for the ninth celebration of Utah Rail Safety Week.

With the theme “Every Sign Tells a Story,” UTA Sr. Public Information Officer Gavin Gustafson told the Standard-Examiner in an email Monday that the week serves as an opportunity to help educate pedestrians, cyclists, drivers and riders and enhance public safety around railroad crossings.

“Our focus this year is on the variety of signs at railway crossings and stations,” he said. “Each sign communicates an important message designed to keep people safe. Increased awareness of what these signs mean and how to follow their warnings could save lives. The theme “Every Sign Tells a Story” emphasizes the importance of noticing, understanding and following the directions given by every sign at every crossing or station. They are there for a reason, and they could save your life.”

One incident that drove this home in 2025 came in February in Layton. A vehicle was rear-ended and subsequently pushed onto the tracks and in the way of a southbound FrontRunner train. The driver ultimately escaped the vehicle before the train collided with it. No injuries were reported as a result of the collision.

Gustafson said that authorities continue to see near-misses and incidents of all sorts along the railroad.

“Even with strong safety measures in place, we continue to see preventable incidents at rail crossings,” he said. “Trains can’t stop quickly, so when people ignore warning signs or barriers, it puts lives at risk. One bad decision can have life-changing consequences. That’s why education and awareness of the annual Rail Safety Weeks are critical.”

According to the release, this year’s Utah Rail Safety Week will include several events and activities all along the Wasatch Front, including:

• “Operation Clear the Track Tuesday — Sept. 16: UTA Police Department and Utah Highway Patrol will be out from 7-9 a.m. enforcing safety to drivers and pedestrians at the following track crossings: Midvale Fort Union Station, Central Pointe Station, Ballpark Station and Provo Central Station.
• Welcome Wednesday — Sept. 17: Utah Operation Lifesaver will be at the Provo City School District Transportation department at 10 a.m. for a school bus media ride-along across railroad tracks: 1120 E. 1320 S., Provo.
• Transit Thursday — Sept. 18: UTA will host an interactive exhibit at Salt Lake Central Station from 4-5:30 p.m., featuring rail safety signs, K-9 demonstrations, and hands-on learning opportunities for the public.
• Football Friday — Sept. 19: Utah Operation Lifesaver will be distributing educational materials at high school football games to educate youth about the importance of crossing railroads safely:
  • Fremont High School in Plain City

  • Viewmont High School in Bountiful

  • West High School in Salt Lake City

  • Jordan High School in Sandy

  • Skyridge High School in Lehi

• All Aboard Saturday — September 20: Celebrate Rail Safety Week with a free morning of train rides. Climb aboard and enjoy a ride with the Utah Live Steamers as we highlight the importance of rail safety in our communities. This family-friendly event is free to attend and perfect for train lovers of all ages.

  • Shay Park — 358 Aspen Hills Blvd., Saratoga Springs

  • Saturday, Sept. 20 | 9 a.m. to noon”

Gustafson said UTA ultimately has one main priority around railroads that stands above all others: safety.

“Our first and last concern is the safety of our riders, our operators, and anyone who comes into close proximity to our rail vehicles, which is everyone — drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians,” he said. “Rail Safety Week is an incredibly important opportunity for us to increase awareness and educate the public on steps we can all take to reduce, or hopefully eliminate, unsafe behavior around trains.”