Florida Department of Transportation and South-Central Florida Express Partner to Promote Rail Safety Ahead of Harvest Season

GLADES COUNTY, Fla. — The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) District One and South-Central Florida Express are continuing their railroad crossing safety initiative as train traffic increases significantly for the 2026 harvest season, beginning in October.

Harvest season also brings more seasonal residents and travelers to local roads. In October 2022 and October 2023, collisions involving motorists and South Central Florida Express trains at the U.S. 27 crossing east of Palmdale Sand Mine and northwest of Moore Haven resulted in derailments, injuries and millions of dollars in losses. The incidents occurred despite clear, dry conditions and functioning warning signals and crossing gates.

Following focused safety outreach, no train–vehicle incidents occurred at this crossing in 2024 or 2025. Continued awareness and safe driving remain essential to maintaining that progress.

Motorists should allow extra travel time and follow these safety reminders:

·                Stay alert and obey all crossing signs, signals and gates.

·                Never drive around lowered gates.

·                Enter a crossing only when there is enough room for the entire vehicle to clear the tracks.

·                Wait until gates are fully raised, warning lights stop flashing and tracks are clear before proceeding.

FDOT and South Central Florida Express urge drivers to remain patient and use caution at railroad crossings throughout the harvest season.

To help increase rail crossing awareness, FDOT offers a quick video on Operation Lifesaver Inc.

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The Florida Department of Transportation’s mission is to provide a safe statewide transportation system that promotes the efficient movement of people and goods, supports the state’s economic competitiveness, prioritizes Florida’s environment and natural resources, and preserves the quality of life and connectedness of the state’s communities.