During Illinois Rail Safety Week, which runs from Sept. 14 to 20, the Oswego Police Department is promoting safety for both motorists and pedestrians around railroad tracks.
According to the Illinois Commerce Commission:
Illinois has more than 7,400 miles of railroad track, the second largest rail system in the country.
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More than 500 million tons of freight moves on rails within Illinois each year, which is the most of any state in the nation.
Chicago is the largest rail hub in the United States and the third largest intermodal container/trailer port in the world, behind only Singapore and Hong Kong.
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There are more than 50 railroad companies that operate their trains in and through Illinois, which is the third highest in the U.S.
About 20 million tons of chemicals, many of which are hazardous, are transported on the rail system in Illinois each year.
There are 10,249 public highway rail grade crossings in Illinois.
No matter where you are in Illinois, you are likely to be around railroad tracks, police said. When crossing tracks, you must always follow the law and be aware of your surroundings, police remind drivers.
For more information on rail safety week, visit www.illinoisrailsafetyweek.org.
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