Letter to the editor: Rail still safest way to transport freight

The editorial “Pennsylvania has real role in regulating rail” (May 8, TribLIVE) rightfully conveyed the importance of railroads to Pennsylvania’s businesses and industry. But the safety discussion could use additional context and a look at the data.

Rail is still the safest way to move freight over land — despite understandable public scrutiny following the East Palestine derailment. Fewer than one percent of all train accidents over the last two decades involved the release of hazardous materials. And recent data from the Federal Railroad Administration shows that the rail safety record is consistently improving, with the last decade being the safest yet.

When tragedies do occur, the vast majority involve grade crossing collisions or people on the tracks. In fact, over 95% of rail-related deaths fall into this category. It is a challenge area that railroads and public safety groups like Operation Lifesaver (and its Pennsylvania chapter) are working to build awareness around.

Finally, it is worth noting that the rail network is the nation’s top-rated infrastructure system according to the American Society of Civil Engineers. This is good news for Pennsylvania, which has more railroads than any other state. Our communities and state economy benefit from a bustling rail network.

Michael Gaynor

Columbus, Ohio

The writer is Pennsylvania state director for GoRail.