Rail travel has long been a cornerstone of public transportation, but ensuring the safety of passengers and vehicles near train tracks remains a persistent challenge. In a forward-thinking move, Caltrain has introduced an innovative AI-powered safety system called Railsentry at its Palo Alto station, setting a new standard for rail safety in the region.
The Power of AI and Lidar in Rail Safety
Imagine a system that never blinks, never gets distracted, and is always on the lookout for potential hazards. That’s exactly what Railsentry brings to the table. By combining high-definition cameras with advanced lidar sensors, this technology continuously scans the train crossing for anything out of the ordinary—be it a stray dog, a forgotten backpack, or a vehicle stuck on the tracks.
The real magic happens behind the scenes. The AI processes the camera and lidar data in real time, instantly recognizing when something or someone is where they shouldn’t be. When a potential danger is detected, the system immediately alerts Caltrain’s dispatchers, who can then notify train operators or transit police to intervene. This rapid response capability is crucial for preventing accidents and keeping everyone safe.
Real-World Impact: Daily Safety Wins
Since its installation, Railsentry has already proven its worth. Caltrain reports daily incidents where the system has detected people or objects in restricted areas, allowing for quick action before any harm can occur. For example, the Churchill Crossing in Palo Alto—where the system is currently deployed—had a history of vehicles getting stuck on the tracks, requiring tow trucks to be called over 30 times between 2020 and April 2025. With Railsentry in place, such incidents can be addressed much more swiftly, reducing both risk and disruption.
Expanding the Safety Net
Caltrain isn’t stopping at Palo Alto. The agency first tested Railsentry at the Broadway Crossing in Burlingame, known as one of California’s most dangerous crossings. Encouraged by the results, Caltrain plans to roll out the technology to the 16th Street crossing in San Francisco later this year, further expanding its safety net across the Bay Area.
Actionable Takeaways for Safer Rail Travel
- Stay alert at crossings: Even with advanced technology, personal vigilance is key. Always obey signals and never attempt to cross when barriers are down.
- Report suspicious activity: If you notice anything unusual near train tracks, alert authorities or station staff immediately.
- Support innovation: Community support for safety initiatives like Railsentry can help accelerate their adoption and make public transportation safer for everyone.
Summary: Key Points
- Caltrain’s Railsentry system uses AI, cameras, and lidar to monitor train crossings in real time.
- The technology has already improved safety at Palo Alto’s Churchill Crossing, reducing incidents and enabling faster responses.
- Railsentry is being expanded to other high-risk crossings in the Bay Area.
- Real-time alerts help operators and police act quickly to prevent accidents.
- Community awareness and support remain essential for maximizing the benefits of these innovations.