Riverside Police Department would like to remind drivers that during this upcoming snow event, they use caution around railroad grade crossings in Riverside. Many crossings have a slight upward grade making it difficult for some drivers to make it across the tracks once they are stopped due to traffic or a train.
Riverside Police Department is recommending that drivers use extreme caution when crossing the gates grade crossings during heavy snow events. Vehicles may become stuck or slip and police do not want you to get stuck on the railroad tracks. If you become stuck in the snow on the grade approaching the railroad you can dial 911 and a police officer will be sent to assist you. Never stop on railroad tracks and ensure there's enough clearance on the opposite side for you to get over the grade crossing.
Riverside Police Department is working the Department of Public Works to ensure that these approaches are plowed and salted throughout snow events. Any residents who believe there is a hazardous condition should contact the police department at 708‑447‑2127 and an officer will be sent to investigate and the appropriate agency will be dispatched to mitigate the dangerous situation.
Chief Thomas Weitzel stated, “The grade crossing the village has the most issues during snow events is the Cowley Road crossing. If it’s possible, you should avoid the Cowley crossing in heavy snow events as smaller, lighter vehicles sometimes have difficulty getting over the tracks and are more inclined to get stuck or cause drivers to stop on the approach.”