MELBOURNE, Fla. – Melbourne Mayor Promises Safety Changes After Fatal Brightline Incidents
After two fatal crashes involving vehicles and Brightline trains, Mayor Paul Alfrey of Melbourne has pledged to implement safety improvements. The mayor recently held a closed-door meeting with the high-speed rail company to discuss potential solutions.
The first incident occurred last Wednesday when a 62-year-old man lost his life in a collision between a train and his vehicle at a railroad crossing. The crash also left three others injured. Tragically, another collision took place on Friday, resulting in the death of two people. Both accidents occurred at the same crossing near South Harbor City Boulevard and WH Jackson Street.
In addition to these incidents, a News 6 viewer captured a video on Sunday showing a Brightline train narrowly avoiding a bicyclist who was attempting to beat the train in Downtown Melbourne on East New Haven Avenue.
Mayor Alfrey revealed that he and Brightline are actively seeking $45 million in grants and funds from the rail company itself. This financial support would be allocated towards safety enhancements at five crossings in Melbourne, as well as others in Brevard County where quad gates, which are barriers that prevent vehicles from driving around them, are currently absent.
To further enhance safety measures, the city of Melbourne plans to install temporary red-light cameras at crossings in order to identify drivers who attempt to bypass the safety regulations.
Mayor Alfrey intends to reveal more specifics regarding these safety improvements during a city council meeting scheduled for Tuesday, January 23 at 6:30 p.m. at city hall.
Brightline launched its high-speed rail service in September, maintaining a continuous presence throughout Brevard County as part of its line between South Florida and Orlando International Airport.
The tragic accidents and near-miss incidents have prompted Mayor Alfrey and Brightline to take swift action in order to prevent further loss of life and ensure the safety of residents and commuters. Through collaborative efforts and financial support, they hope to implement crucial safety improvements at multiple crossings, reducing the risk of future accidents.
As the community awaits further details, it is clear that the importance of addressing these safety concerns is paramount. By prioritizing the well-being of Melbourne’s residents, Mayor Alfrey and Brightline are determined to instigate positive change and prevent future tragedies.
#Tags: Melbourne, Brightline, safety improvements, fatal crashes, collision, Mayor Paul Alfrey, railroad crossing, funding, grants, quad gates, red-light cameras, city council meeting.
