NOTE: As with most Internet polls, this poll is not balanced against a weighted sample. There is no statistical accuracy relating to any specific demographic of poll takers. Anyone can take this poll and the Northender collects no data about the respondents.
An accident does not need to become a tragedy. The Long Island Rail
Road (LIRR) has a fundamental responsibility to insure the safety of its
passengers. The death of 18 year old Natalie Smead at the Woodside train
station has served as an overdue reminder that every step must be taken to
provide a safe travel experience for the riding public.
The Syosset station has become the focus of a system wide platform
gap problem. Recently announced new safety measures at the Syosset station
are an appropriate addition to previously installed tactile strips that
warn riders of the approaching end of the platform and increased lighting
at car entrances. While closed-circuit monitors and recorded messages will
not prevent a fall, a motorman's awareness of a fall will save lives or
prevent serious injury.
While some have called these steps insufficient and clamored for
permanent gap fillers, it is crucial to look at the facts. The LIRR has
repeatedly stated that the curved nature of the Syosset platform may make
traditional gap fillers impractical. Even if extended platforms could be
installed, outdoor weather conditions, conditions that subway platforms do
not face, could potentially reek havoc with the system. One size fits all
solutions do not work for every station.
The LIRR has said they will launch an immediate study into new and
innovative solutions. However, until the new technology exists to bridge
the gap, we must institute the types of immediate safety measures adopted
at the Syosset station. Let’s continue to make the stations along the line
safer today, pointing fingers and idle talk will not prevent another
tragedy.
