@ApproachMedium In Freehold maybe but there’s not a chance in hell you will ever see a train go over 10 MPH in Lakewood without MAJOR measures taken to combat trespassing. The locals use the tracks as a walking trail between certain areas, and the more mischievous ones leave garbage on the ROW. Some vandalize the track too. It’s been an ongoing problem for over a decade now.
Go to any crossing in Downtown Lakewood when the train comes through. It’s utter chaos.
Some run in front of the train, others stop on the track to look at the train while it’s approaching only to keep driving, those who do stop at the crossings get honked at by people who aren’t willing to wait for the train.
Then when the train goes up to Cross Street to turn around the traffic will sometimes back up for MILES. I’m not joking! Many times I’ve caught people come very close to having road rage-induced crashes there.
Norfolk Southern Police have tried numerous times to combat the trespassing problem to no avail. Some crews from back in the day have actually quit their jobs over what goes on. If you want a train to go faster than 10 MPH through Lakewood then you need the following:
1. Fencing on both sides of the track from County Line Rd to Cross Street. Preferably something that isn’t easily climbed over.
2. Bilingual signs EVERYWHERE that clearly describe the dangers of walking on train tracks and how it is illegal. Languages should at least include English, Spanish, and Hebrew.
3. Complete overhaul/replacement of all railroad crossings from County Line Rd to Cross Street. Quad gates, LED lights, pedestrian gates, gate skirts to prevent people from going under the gates, crossing predictor circuits, “DO NOT STOP ON TRACKS” signs, etc. Certain crossings may need to be tied into traffic lights.
4. Somehow you’d need a way to keep people off the two bridges in the area.
5. 24/7 regular patrols from railroad police to ensure the line is kept clear of trespassers or dangerous conditions at all times.
6. Anti-vandalism measures applied to relay boxes, signals, etc. Locks that are very hard to pick are recommended.