How the Santa Ana Grade Separation Project Can Improve Pedestrian Safety
The City of Santa Ana was awarded $25 million in federal funds for the Santa Ana Grade Separation Project (Project). This railroad crossing underpass project is expected to significantly improve pedestrian safety in a city where busy rail crossings pose a significant risk to motorists and pedestrians.
The Project involves reconstructing the current rail crossing at Santa Ana Boulevard, adjacent to the Santa Ana Regional Transportation Center, to create a safer route for pedestrians and reduce accidents at railroad crossings.
How Will the Underpass Improve Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety?
The Santa Ana Railway Underpass will benefit pedestrians and cyclists who frequently cross Santa Ana Boulevard. According to the City of Santa Ana, the project involves reducing the roadway from 6 lanes to 4 lanes. It also includes adding sidewalks, protected bikeways, and a pedestrian overcrossing.
The underpass can reduce the likelihood of accidents by separating pedestrians and bicyclists from high-speed trains and vehicular traffic. Mayor Valerie Amezcua said, “The Santa Ana Boulevard Grade Separation Project will literally save lives by making a busy railroad crossing safer for drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians.”
Santa Ana Grade Separation Project Details
The Santa Ana Grade Separation Project limits extend from the I-5 southbound ramps in the east to Santiago Street. The railroad crossing underpass project separates pedestrian, cyclist, and vehicle traffic from the railway tracks. This is crucial in a densely populated city like Santa Ana, where pedestrians frequently cross railway lines daily. Outputs of this initiative include:
- 7,600 sq. ft. railroad underpass structure
- 2,000 sq. ft. of pedestrian overcrossing structures
- 0.5 miles of protected bike lanes
- 0.8 miles of sidewalks
- 1.2 miles of roadway lanes
When Will the Project Be Completed?
According to the Orange County Register, construction could begin in January 2027. The Santa Ana Railway Underpass Project is expected to be completed by January 2029.
The Project Benefits
- Better traffic flow: The project can significantly improve traffic flow, boost emergency response times, and reduce accidents at rail crossings.
- Safer pedestrian and cyclist routes: Incorporating on-street bike lanes and a pedestrian overcrossing parallel to the rail line will alleviate traffic congestion and enhance safety.
- Improved infrastructure: The project includes adding a raised median, sidewalks, and space for a transportation opportunity zone and a pedestrian plaza. The underpass will also include room for future transit expansion, such as a bus lane and a pedestrian promenade.
- Environmental benefits: Reducing vehicle idling times at railway crossings can help lower emissions and improve air quality.
The OC Streetcar Project
The OC Streetcar, a 4.15-mile light rail project will link Santa Ana and Garden Grove, will have a stop at the Santa Ana Regional Transportation Center. The Santa Ana station has stops for Amtrak and Metrolink trains and for Orange County Transit. The expected opening date is August 2025.
Santa Ana Pedestrian Accident Statistics
- According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 7,522 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes in the U.S. in 2022.
- Most pedestrian and bicycle accidents occur in urban settings. In 2022, urban areas accounted for 59% of all traffic fatalities.
- According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, over 76,000 pedestrians and 47,000 cyclists are injured annually in traffic accidents.
- In 2021, there were 1,108 pedestrian deaths in California — a 9.3% increase from 2020.
- The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) estimates that California’s pedestrian fatality rate is nearly 25% higher than the national average.
- In 2021, 127 pedestrians and 89 bicyclists were injured and killed in traffic crashes across Santa Ana.
Common Hazards for Pedestrians
Pedestrians in urban areas like Santa Ana face several hazards, particularly near busy intersections and railway crossings. Here are the primary dangers pedestrians encounter:
Distracted Drivers
One of the most significant hazards for pedestrians is distracted drivers. In 2022, distracted driving claimed the lives of 3,308 people. Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise not paying full attention to the road may fail to see pedestrians crossing, especially at marked or unmarked crosswalks.
Speeding Vehicles
Speeding, a factor in 29% of all traffic fatalities, is another major danger to pedestrians. When vehicles exceed the speed limit, it becomes harder for drivers to stop in time if a pedestrian steps onto the roadway. Additionally, the force of impact is much greater at higher speeds, which increases the severity of injuries in the event of a collision.
Inadequate Lighting and Poor Visibility
Poor visibility due to inadequate street lighting or environmental factors, such as rain or fog, can make it difficult for both drivers and pedestrians to see each other. Crosswalks that are not well-lit or intersections that lack visibility are especially dangerous at night, when most pedestrian accidents tend to occur.
Pedestrian Safety Tips
- Stay alert and avoid distractions
Always pay attention to your surroundings when walking near roads or train tracks. Avoid using your cell phone or using headphones while walking. - Obey traffic signals and signs
Follow all pedestrian traffic signals, such as “walk” and “don’t walk” signs, and only cross when it is safe. - Make eye contact with drivers
Before crossing the street, make sure to establish eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you. Never assume that a driver has spotted you or will stop automatically. - Use designated crosswalks
Whenever possible, cross streets at marked crosswalks or intersections. Pedestrians must obey traffic rules and look both ways before crossing. - Be visible
Wear bright or reflective clothing when walking at night or in hard-to-see conditions. Avoid walking in bad weather conditions such as heavy rain and fog. - Walk facing traffic on roads without sidewalks
If there is no sidewalk, walk on the side of the road facing oncoming traffic. This allows you to see vehicles coming toward you. - Wait for a complete stop at crosswalks
When crossing at a crosswalk, wait until all cars have come to a complete stop before stepping into the street. Some drivers may not stop immediately, especially if they’re distracted or speeding.
We Represent Pedestrian Accident Victims
If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident caused by someone else’s negligence, it’s crucial to seek legal representation to protect your rights. Pedestrian accidents often result in severe injuries, and victims may be able to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional suffering.
At Riverview Accident Lawyers, our experienced personal injury lawyers are dedicated to helping pedestrian accident victims recover full and fair compensation. We can help you navigate the complexities of personal injury claims and hold the responsible parties accountable. Contact our Santa Ana law firm at (657) 655-6045 today for a free consultation and no upfront legal fees.