Idaho police beef up patrols at rail crossings in two counties

The Idaho State Police will continue enhanced traffic enforcement at railroad crossings in two counties as part of the force's "Adopt a Crossing" initiative, which is aimed at increasing public awareness of potential dangers at rail intersections, police officials announced last week.

Increased patrols in Twin Falls and Jerome counties began in July, and will continue through mid-September. The operation received funding from the Idaho Department of Transportation's Office of Highway Safety and Operation Lifesaver Inc., according to an Idaho State Police press release.

"It is our hope that by informing the public that we are focusing on enforcing the traffic laws that pertain to these rail crossings that they [will] always be more careful when approaching them," said Idaho State Police Sgt. Mark Donahue.

Four vehicle/train collisions occurred in Idaho this year. Last year, there were 20 vehicle/train collisions, resulting in one fatality. Two pedestrians were killed while on the tracks.