The Village of New Lenox and the New Lenox Safe Community Coalition, in partnership with METRA, will host a free rail safety presentation on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. in the Community Room at New Lenox Village Hall, 1 Veterans Parkway.

 Carl Cicero, Inspector Training Coordinator for the METRA Police Department, will lead the presentation in conjunction with the State of Illinois Operation Lifesaver Program.

  The event aims to educate residents about railroad safety and train operations, particularly relevant as two METRA Commuter Rail Service lines—the Rock Island District (RI) to Joliet and the Southwest Service (SWS) to Manhattan—run through New Lenox.

 "Although trains are a staple our community, many residents may not fully understand how they operate or the critical safety measures needed around railroad crossings," said Alaina Murphy, Safe Community Coordinator for the Village of New Lenox.

 Operation Lifesaver is a nationwide program designed to promote railroad safety and awareness for children and adults of all ages. METRA, in partnership with the State of Illinois Operation Lifesaver Program, offers this free training throughout its service areas.

Registration is required and available through Eventbrite: Operation Lifesaver Registration

For additional information about Illinois Operation Lifesaver, visit the Illinois Commerce Commission website at https://www.icc.illinois.gov/ilol/.

For questions regarding this presentation OR information about future Safe Community Coalition event offerings, please contact:

Megan Applegate Safe Community Coordinator scc@newlenox.net or (815) 462-6427

     Stay tuned,

     Wayne