Brightline, a somewhat new American high-speed rail system, has been in the news quite a bit recently due to accidents at grade crossings. Brightline has taken into account the many injuries and fatalities and they are working on improving safety at the crossings. There are several ways these accidents happen; here are a few of them:

• not paying attention to flashing lights, bells, and train horns.

• driving around the crossing gates.

• seeing the warning signs, but crossing the tracks anyways.

• car or truck getting stuck on the tracks.

These accidents can be prevented if everyone payed attention to the warnings. Brightline has stated that they will be improving the safety precautions at grade crossings. These precautions include:

• adding crossing gates to sidewalks that cross the tracks.

• adding another set of crossbucks, crossing gates, and lights to grade crossings that don't already block both sides of the road.

• continuing promotion of Operation Lifesaver.

Brightline is taking those steps to ensure safety, but you can take some precautions, too. Here's what you can do and look out for when you are around railroad/grade crossings:

• "LOOK:

  • cross only where you can see a designated crossings.

  • always look both directions before crossing the railroad tracks."

  • find the blue sign on the crossing for emergency services and railroad contact info.

• "LISTEN:

  • trains are quiet, so be alert.

  • don't wear headphones or earbuds around the tracks.

  • there might not always be a train horn at every crossing.

• LIVE:

  • never cross the track when you see a moving train.

  • never trespass on train tracks - it's against the law.

  • never try to chase or outrun a train.

  • never walk or bike along train tracks."

For more from Brightline safety use this link: https://www.gobrightline.com/railroad-construction/safety-fact-sheet

Well-known for the second largest operating steam locomotive in the world, Western Maryland #1309, the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad (WMSR) has acquired the Georges Creek Division. On January 15th, 2024, an announcement was released on the WMSR's website documenting the acquisition of the Georges Creek Railway.

The WMSR secured a long-term lease for the Georges Creek Railway in southwestern Allegany County. The acquisition, made possible through a lease agreement with Eighteen Thirty Group, LLC, will result in the rebranding of the line as the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad, Georges Creek Division.

Building on the success of doubling visitor numbers on its existing line between Cumberland and Frostburg, WMSR's new Georges Creek Division aims to explore various revenue streams, including passengers and potential freight. The division will operate independently, drawing inspiration from successful short-line railroads like the Tennessee Valley, Everett, and Naugatuck Railroads.

Wesley Heinz, WMSR's Executive Director, sees this move as the result of over two years of discussions with Eighteen Thirty Group. The Georges Creek Division opens opportunities for limited freight services, fulfilling requests from CSX and other vendors. Heinz envisions economic development in the Georges Creek valley through tourism and rail services.

Known for its community-oriented approach, WMSR operates on Allegany County-owned tracks, offering various excursions and events. With "over 47,000 passengers in 2021" and nearly "75,000 visitors" in 2023, the nonprofit seeks innovative solutions to enhance rail experiences.

Heinz emphasizes that the Georges Creek Division initiative allows WMSR to shape its future, capitalizing on the charm of small towns along Georges Creek for new visitor experiences and fostering local economic growth.

The Georges Creek Railway, purchased in 2006 by Eighteen Thirty Group, LLC and Georges Creek, LLC, went dormant in 2019. WMSR plans include addressing overgrowth, ensuring safety measures, and collaborating with community leaders. Interest in developing bike trails alongside the railroad aims to replicate the success of the Great Allegheny Passage.

The partnership reflects a shared passion for history, positioning WMSR as a key economic driver in Western Maryland's communities along the Georges Creek railway. As WMSR embarks on this venture, it aims to revitalize the rail line, one railroad tie at a time.