RALEIGH, N.C. – The North Carolina Department of Transportation highlighted several key initiatives this week, including enhanced rail safety measures at the N.C. State Fair, pedestrian safety awareness programs, and the successful completion of its Fall Litter Sweep campaign.

State Fair Rail Safety Takes Center Stage

As the N.C. State Fair continues through Oct. 26, NCDOT officials are urging fairgoers to exercise caution around railroad tracks and designated crossing areas. NC By Train, the state’s intercity passenger rail service, is making its traditional annual stop at the fairgrounds, bringing both convenience and the need for heightened safety awareness.

“We have fenced the entire limits of the fair this year,” said Troy Creasy, Rail Division Branch Manager of Design and Construction. “Any place there is fencing, we want to make sure that we are staying away from the fence, and we’re not crossing the fencing onto the railroad corridor for any reason. We want to make sure we are only using the designated crossing, which is Powell Drive.”

NCDOT reminds fairgoers that train tracks are not shortcuts and that trains can be quieter than expected, especially in crowded environments. Attendees should stop, look in both directions, and cross only at designated areas. Additional rail safety information is available at BeRailSafe.org.

Limited tickets remain available for those wishing to take the train to the State Fair. Visitors can also stop by Safety City, hosted by the Governor’s Highway Safety Program, for interactive games and transportation safety tips suitable for all ages.

Students Celebrate Walk to School Day

State Transportation Secretary Daniel Johnson joined local officials, students, and families from Hunter Magnet Elementary in Raleigh last week to celebrate National Walk, Bike and Roll to School Day. The annual event promotes pedestrian safety while encouraging families to use active transportation methods for school commutes.

Nearly 100 North Carolina schools participated in this year’s event, which raises awareness about walkable neighborhoods and the importance of safe routes to school.

Fall Litter Sweep Collects Nearly Half a Million Pounds

NCDOT recently concluded its Fall Litter Sweep campaign with impressive results, collecting 496,140 pounds of litter during the two-week initiative. The department has now removed over 8 million pounds of litter from North Carolina roadways in 2025.

Public Input Sought Through Annual Survey

The department is seeking feedback from residents through its 2025 customer service survey, which includes questions about both NCDOT services and the N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles. The survey, available on NCDOT.gov through Nov. 7, helps the department identify improvements to make its transportation network, programs, and services safer and more efficient.

For more information, contact the NCDOT Communications Office at (919) 707-2660 or visit NCDOT.gov.