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BNSF Railway Co. has posted progress in reducing pedestrian/trespasser incidents this year. During 2009’s first two months, incidents decreased 19 percent compared with the same 2008 period.

BNSF officials partially attribute the reduction to community education programs. In January and February, the railroad conducted more than 500 Operation Lifesaver presentations for industrial truck and school bus drivers, and students.

In addition, BNSF closed 65 grade crossings and obtained contracts to close 36 more. The Class I plans to close a total of 450 crossings this year.

"By continuing to focus on raising awareness within our communities, involving local law enforcement and eliminating redundant grade crossings, we can make a difference,” said Steven Neubauer, director of field safety support, in an item posted on the “BNSF News” Web site. “The reporting of unsafe motorists and trespassers is another proactive tool in our efforts to eliminate grade crossing collisions and trespasser incidents.”