Geneva train station to get more alarms

In March, the Geneva Metra station is getting a new alarm system that will, when a train is parked at the station, warn people that a second train is passing through.

It will join the bells, flashing red lights and crossing gates already in place that let walkers and drivers know a train is passing through.

The Another Train Warning System is being installed at eight stations on the Union Pacific West Line. It features a sign that flashes “DANGER” in red letters, another sign that says “Another Train Coming” in steady white lights, and an audible alarm.

Metra is also putting in new pedestrian paths and fencing to keep walkers away from the tracks, and a new commuter platform.

According to Federal Railroad Administration data, there has been one incident at the Third Street crossing since 1975. In 2005, a woman’s minivan was struck from behind and pushed in to a commuter train that was leaving the station, moving at 5 mph. The woman was seriously injured.

Federal crossing data indicates that about 103 trains pass through that crossing daily.

Metra officials will give a presentation on the changes to the Geneva City Council committee of the whole at 7 p.m. Monday at City Hall, 109 James St.