The railroad’s police force and track inspectors are teaming up.
They are partnering on the hi-rail safety initiative. It’s a mission to combine their efforts to alleviate safety concerns and criminal activity on and along Belt Railway tracks.
Police officers ride with track department employees in
hi-rail vehicles on the railroad’s more than 27 miles of mainline tracks. This allows them to patrol areas they can’t normally access. They ride in pairs so immediate action can be taken if necessary.
Officers report that the initiative has worked well and is particularly useful in removing trespassers who put themselves in harm᾿s way by setting up camps on railroad property.
The initiative, which has helped track inspectors and police officers learn from one another, has forged stronger working relationships as well. It will continue throughout
the year.