NEWMARKET – With weekend GO Train service on theBarrie line scheduled to begin this Saturday, The Regional Municipality of York and GO Transit would like to remind motorists, cyclists and pedestrians on York Region’s roads to exercise caution near railway tracks and crossings.

As part of a weekend service pilot, GO Transit will be running six southbound trains to Union Station and six northbound trains each Saturday and Sunday (plus holidays) from June 23 to September 3 on itsBarrieline.

York Region is asking everyone to be mindful of the following safety tips:

Safety Tips for motorists:

When approaching a railway crossing, look both ways for oncoming trains and be prepared to stop, if requiredWhen the warning lights are activated and a train is approaching:Do not stop in the middle of the tracks under any circumstanceStop at least five metres away from the nearest rail Proceed across the tracks only when the lights have stopped flashing and the tracks are clear

Safety Tips for Cyclists and Pedestrians:

Always obey railway crossing warning signs and signals and yield the right-of-way to approaching trainsWhen on foot, avoid stepping onto the rail as it is a smooth metal surface and you could easily slip; always step over each rail as you crossAvoid using any personal audio device as you approach a crossing; it will interfere with your ability to hear an approaching trainWhen using wheelchairs, strollers, bicycles and other rolling items at railway crossings, use extra caution; small wheels can get stuck in the groove designed for the train wheelsTake the time to stop, look, and listenNever walk on or along the railway tracks

For more information on theBarrieweekend GO Train service pilot, including a complete schedule, please visit: www.gotransit.com

For information on YRT/Viva, including connecting service at GO Train stations on the Barrie GO Train line, please visit: www.yrt.ca

Media Contact: Ken Turriff, Corporate Communications,YorkRegion

Founded in 1971, The Regional Municipality of York is made up of nine municipalities and
provides services to nearly 1.1 million residents and 28,000 businesses that employ 516,000 people