South Shore Line to hold safety study following death of young woman at pedestrian crossing

The South Shore Line announced a 90-day diagnostic study will be done following a pedestrian crossing incident at the Hegewisch Station on July 25, which left a Northwest Indiana woman dead.

Officials say they've gone to a nationally recognized engineering firm specializing in grade-crossing diagnostics to conduct a thorough assessment of their pedestrian at-grade crossings.

The diagnostic report will evaluate active warning safety enhancements at pedestrian crossings along the South Shore Line.

Officials say they expect the diagnostic report within 90 days and are committed to securing funding to implement safety enhancements as soon as possible.

While the diagnostic study is underway, officials say they've taken immediate steps to enhance safety by placing additional warning signage at pedestrian crossings, including the Operation Lifesaver message, "See Tracks, Think Train."

The diagnostic report may present further opportunities for warning signage to remind pedestrians to cross railroad tracks safely.

Officials add, "Our commitment to passenger and public safety remains unwavering, and we will always evaluate measures to provide a safe environment for our passengers and the public at large."

Officials also urge all pedestrians and drivers to always exercise caution around railroad tracks, by looking both ways before crossing. They say you should remember that a train can come at any time, from any direction, on any track.