Important information about light rail / bike safety

The light rail is opening soon… and testing is under way. The light rail is great news for cyclists in that it means fewer cars on the road, and light rail trains are more predictable than cars. Also, you can bring your bike on the trains, making many more destinations in the valley bikeable. The trains are a new to bikers and drivers alike- be aware of them and ride safely. The info below was sent to us by Metro.

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Expect a train anytime from either direction around the light rail tracks. METRO light rail is vehicle testing on Valley roadways. Trains are out there everyday, with several trains out at one time. In the fall, trains will be testing such a regular rate, across all 20 miles that the system will appear in service. Specifically in the months of November and December, “simulated service” testing will occur and continue up until our grand opening on December 27, 2008.

So it is more critical than ever to practice safety around the METRO system. Please remember these key bicycle safety tips:

Never bike on light rail tracks and always walk your bike onto the station platform.
Obey traffic lights. A red arrow means “do not turn.” Look both ways before crossing the tracks.
Light rail trains are quiet. Look for flashing headlights and listen for warning bells and horns.
When crossing the tracks at intersections, cross at an angle to avoid falling or tire damage.

METRO light rail is a 20-mile system that connects the cities of Phoenix, Tempe and Mesa. The in-road system will have 28 stations, eight park-and-ride facilities and 50 trains. Trains will operate about 20 hours a day and stop at stations every 10 minutes during daytime hours. Sharing the same fare structure as the Valley’s bus service, fares are very reasonable beginning at $1.25 for a single ride.

For more information on how to ride and ways to be safe around METRO light rail, visit www.metrolightrail.org.