Wanda English Burnett, Editor

On Monday, December 1 Greensburg Honda began its first rail shipment sending 80% of its Honda Civics made in Greensburg east to Cincinnati. This will impact the communities of Greensburg, St. Paul, Sunman and Batesville.

Knowing that the plans are to run two trains a day, shipping 80% of the 2,000 vehicles produced, State Representative Cleo Duncan has great concerns about the public’s safety.

Duncan facilitated a rail safety meeting earlier in Batesville where rail officials met with various government leaders, law enforcement, school, transportation and business representatives to learn more about when the trains will run, and how our communities can be safe.

“If all of us work together to bring awareness...we can all enjoy the economic benefits of Honda and other businesses that are coming to the area,” Duncan told The Versailles Republican.

At the meeting Honda’s Andrew Stoner said the plan is for the trains to depart from Greensburg by 4 p.m. traveling to Cincinnati and return between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. Initially, there will only be six rail cars but that will increase to 45 eventually.
Knowing that it can take a mile or more for a train to get stopped, Duncan says the warning signs are there for a reason. She wants people to be aware of the railroad tracks at all times, heed the warnings and most of all be safe.

Rail officials note that the rails are a 24/7 operation with much more than just Honda’s cargo being shipped.

Recently in Ripley County several stop signs have been placed at railroad crossings, helping motorists to get used to the fact that where there wasn’t much train traffic before there now will be.

Some safe driving tips from the Operation Lifesaver, Inc. organization are:
• Always expect a train.

• Minimize distractions. When you near a railroad crossing, lower the window, turn off the radio and fan to listen for a train.

• Maximize alertness. Avoid driving when you’re tired, drinking alcohol or taking medication that could blur your vision or cause drowsiness.

• Take extra care. Study signs and signals at intersections. Be alert to changing traffic signals, signs and watch for railroad grade crossing advance warning signs.

Duncan urges motorists to be aware of the increase in train traffic and always stop at railroad tracks.