DPS TO INCREASE ENFORCEMENT OF RAILROAD TRESPASSING

Walking, riding, driving or being upon railroad tracks or the right-of-way is prohibited by state law except at streets and sidewalks.  The right-of-way usually extends 50 feet on each side of the tracks.  U-M's Department of Public Safety (DPS) will increase enforcement of this law, especially along the Norfolk Southern tracks that run near the Medical Campus after a recent near-miss with a pedestrian. 

Railroad police contacted DPS Aug. 3 to report that one of their trains had almost hit a man dressed in a white shirt and tie who was walking along the tracks near the Fuller-Mitchell recreation fields.  Witnesses reported the man had fallen backwards to avoid being hit by the train.  Several DPS officers spent considerable time in the area looking for the man or any signs of injuries. 

Train personnel report that near-misses are not uncommon along this area.  DPS cautions employees to avoid walking along unauthorized paths through the woods between the Medical Campus and parking lots or buildings along Fuller Road .  Instead, employees should utilize the U-M Commuter buses or hospital shuttles or walk along the cement sidewalks to access their vehicles.  Trespassing on railroad property can result in 30 days in jail and/or a $100 fine plus court fees.

Thank you for your cooperation.