Greetings,

Your safety is our top priority. It's also important to remember that safety is a shared responsibility. In preparation for the start of Northstar Commuter Rail service on Nov. 16, please take a moment to review Metro Transit's rail safety tips.

STATION PLATFORM SAFETY TIPS

Here are some safety tips to keep in mind while on station platforms:

  • Access station platforms by crossing train tracks only at clearly marked crossings.
  • Running, skateboarding, rollerblading and riding bicycles are prohibited on station platforms.
  • While waiting for the train, stay well away from the edge of the platform and behind the yellow line. Freight trains sharing tracks with Northstar trains travel at up to 80 mph and are not required to slow down when passing through Northstar stations.
  • Listen for bells and horns that announce oncoming trains.
  • Remember that Northstar and freight trains can operate in both directions.
  • Before you board, allow others to exit the train first.
  • Do not approach the train until it has come to a complete stop.
  • Avoid sticking arms or legs in the doors to prevent them from closing.
  • In an emergency at a station or park-and-ride lot, call 911 or use the emergency call box on each station platform.
  • Obey crossing arms. Never walk or drive around lowered crossing arms.

RIDER SAFETY TIPS

Safety is also important while on board trains.

  • There is a small gap between the train and the platform so watch your step when boarding and exiting the train.
  • While riding the train, please remain seated. If standing, hold on to the seat handles along the aisles.
  • Please keep your children nearby. Running on the train is dangerous.
  • Keep your belongings free of the aisles and out of others' way - each Northstar passenger car will have storage areas for large bags and bicycles.
  • Do not leave valuables unattended.

It also is important to pay attention to warning signs and sounds and practice safety near train tracks and in station park-and-ride lots, particularly during winter and severe weather.

Between now and service launch, train testing along BNSF train tracks continues and should be viewed and/or photographed only from a safe distance. Also remember that Northstar stations are off limits to the public until the public grand opening events on Nov. 14.

Exploring the Northstar Corridor: Spotlight on Elk River

The City of Elk River is the Sherburne County seat and is known as "Energy City," a name given to the city by the Minnesota Environmental Initiative. As Energy City, Elk River continues to be a location where Minnesota's energy industries are demonstrating cutting edge renewable and energy efficient technologies. Elk River also features several city parks along the Elk and Mississippi rivers that provide hiking, biking and cross country ski trails. The city's proximity to Highways 10, 169, 101 and nearby Interstate 94, and easy access to the Twin Cities, is one of many reasons for its growing popularity among young families and businesses. To learn more, visit the City of Elk River or the Elk River Area Chamber of Commerce.  

Sincerely,

Dan Erhart
NCDA Chair