ORLANDO, Fla. (WOFL FOX 35 ORLANDO) -
The deadly crash which claimed the life of a dump truck driver after his truck was struck by a train, will soon be getting safety upgrades.
Florida Department of Transportation spokesperson Steve Olson said it's on the list of rail intersections set for an upgrade, all thanks to enhancements in preparation of SunRail.
"This crossing here is under design right now, but the plans call for putting in a gate and also flashing lights," said Olson.
FDOT now controls 89 of the 91 railroad intersections between DeBary and Sandlake Road. All 89 of their rail intersections will have bells, lights and gates by the time the first phase of SunRail is up and running.
"We've been under construction since January, so we're just beginning," he said.
When SunRail starts transporting commuters in 2014, there will be two sets of tracks, all used by SunRail, Amtrak and CSX. With SunRail running service every half hour, during peak rush hour times, these gates will be necessary at all the intersections.
Until then, FDOT warns drivers to pay attention and use extra caution when crossing railroad tracks.
"Be very careful at grade crossings. If the gates are down, don't go around them. If there are no gates, on the way it is now, you need to stop and look," Olson added.
