Metra safety blitzes return in 2026 with 41 station events

Metra safety blitzes will take place 41 times in 2026. According to Progressive Railroading, Metra said the goal is safer behavior near train tracks.

Metra safety blitzes: Operation Lifesaver outreach at stations

Metra said each Operation Lifesaver safety blitz will be held during the morning rush hour. The events will rotate among the railroad’s 243 Metra stations, as outlined in the Metra newsroom announcement.

Metra employees will distribute educational materials focused on grade crossing safety. They will also answer passengers’ questions and listen to safety concerns. A short grade crossing safety video will play while riders wait to board their trains. Also, Metra invites local emergency responders and public officials to attend the events.

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Safety materials at schools near Metra track

In addition to the station-based events, Metra said it will distribute safety materials at schools located near Metra track this year.

Metra Police enforcement blitzes and Illinois grade crossing safety

Separately, Metra Police will conduct enforcement blitzes across the railroad’s six-county coverage area. Officers will issue citations and warnings. Those steps target drivers and pedestrians who ignore gates and warning devices, Metra said.

At the same time, Metra has posted a schedule. It lists the time and location of this year’s safety blitzes.

The blitzes are held annually. Metra said Illinois ranks fifth in the nation for train versus vehicle collisions at grade crossings. Illinois also ranks third for trespassing fatalities.

Metra cited Federal Railroad Administration data for Illinois. It said that last year 25 people died and 43 people sustained injuries in grade crossing incidents in the state. Additional grade crossing incident data is available via the Federal Railroad Administration.

Another 44 people died in Illinois in 2025 while trespassing along railroad rights of way. Another 24 were injured.

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