The proposed Reno ordinance will save lives near the city's railroad tracks

Kathleen Taylor
| Reno Gazette Journal

In recent years, there have been three deaths, 2,803 responses from the Reno Police Department and 120 calls to the Reno Fire Department; all powerful, yet tragic statistics about why people simply shouldn’t be on railroad tracks. The Reno City Council has the chance to make it right for all residents, housed or unhoused, on August 14th. On Wednesday, we will hear a regulation introduction that gives us a new tool to save people’s lives. But let me be clear: This proposal is nothing new.

It is already illegal to access private railroad property anywhere other than a designated pedestrian or road crossing. These corridors are not intended for public use and pose significant life and safety concerns. This proposed ordinance prevents people from trespassing within 100 feet of the railroad without having to post a “no trespassing” sign every 500 feet or fencing. The railway itself will act as a marker instead of a sign or fence. It is not about pushing away our vulnerable residents; it is about removing a sign/fence requirement. That’s all.

Removing the sign/fence requirement is a tool that allows the city to enforce the law. Many of these signs are in poor condition or have deteriorated completely and the fencing that has been installed has been cut up. This means that people can technically access the tracks without officially trespassing.

Some may believe that this ordinance will criminalize homelessness. I understand this, but this ordinance is about creating a safer Reno for everyone. In fact, responding to the railroad has consumed valuable first-responder resources. It’s your tax money and your security. From May 2022 to May 2024, the Reno Police Department responded to 2,803 calls on the tracks within 100 feet of the railroad. The Reno Fire Department has responded to 120 calls since 2022.

By mirroring similar laws in California and in line with Federal Railroad Administration standards, we are proactive in preventing unnecessary deaths and potential accidents. This activity on the tracks compromises the integrity of the railway itself. Erosion of the rock and soil supporting the ties and rails can lead to derailments, spills of hazardous materials, and further loss of life and property damage. It is time that we prioritize the safety of all our residents, housed and unhoused.

I work in, live in and represent Downtown Reno. I’ve walked close to tracks myself, and what I’ve seen is both heartbreaking and terrifying. The rails, the ties and the constant threat of a train rolling through – it’s just plain dangerous. This council has already done so much for our homeless residents and now we can do more. We have invested in affordable housing, mental health care and outreach programs. This ordinance is just one part of a broader strategy to protect our residents and that is why I urge my fellow councilors and the entire community to support this ordinance. We must be willing to commit to the well-being of every person in the biggest little town. We can’t wait any longer.

Kathleen Taylor represents Ward 5 on the Reno City Council.

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The proposed Reno ordinance will save lives near the city’s railroad tracks

The proposed Reno ordinance will save lives near the city’s railroad tracks