A string of deadly train crashes in Central Florida have the Florida Department of Transportation buying fences.
Officials said they plan to build the barriers in areas where they have noticed people tend to cut across the tracks.
The fences will cost the department about $300,000. The 6-foot chain link fences cover various areas throughout the 32-mile SunRail system. The Altamonte Springs SunRail station has been identified as one of the locations.
Chad Brohard commutes on the train and said he has witnessed people dangerously cutting across the tracks.
“It’s pretty dangerous you know with people dying or committing unnecessary suicide so I think it would be a good idea,” said Chad Brohard, SunRail rider.
FDOT’s project to add fencing has gained more attention since two pedestrians were fatally hit by trains in November. On Wednesday, 33-year-old Lori Cromer was killed by an Amtrak train at the Altamonte Springs Sunrail Station. Police have not said why the woman was on the tracks.The deadly crash impacted sun rail trains for about three hours.
In early November, a man also jumped in front of a train in downtown Orlando, committing suicide.
“Unless they try to climb over the fence, then at that point, there is not much we can do for that person, but ya I think it will help a lot,” said Brohard.
FDOT officials admit that while they think fencing will help, they can’t guarantee people won’t walk around or climb over them.
Engineers are currently working on the plans for the project. FDOT officials do not know how long it will take to install the fences.