In case you missed it, Journal News columnist Bob Baird today writes about how New Jersey Transit has gone ahead and repaired a fence along its railroad tracks in Spring Valley. Click here to read his column.

Bob’s column two weeks ago prompted Sen. Charles Schumer to get involved last week, and, ultimately, resulted in the fix.

Schumer sent a letter to NJ Transit executive director Richard Sarles calling on the transit agency to quickly make the repairs, schedule regular inspections of the fence and replace multi-lingual signs along the tracks, and consider adding pictures of graphics to make them easier to understand. Many people in the area don’t speak English and use the tracks as a shortcut, on which 13 people have died since 1985.

Sarles replied Schumer today.

Here is his letter:

Dear Senator Schumer:

Thank you very much for your attention to the fencing issue in Clarkstown along the Pascack Valley Line.

As soon as we became aware that there were possible holes in the fence, we immediately sent inspectors to investigate. Our inspectors walked the length of the fence and found holes under the structure that we believe began with soil erosion which was exacerbated by people making them larger by digging under the fence. The holes were filled the next day.

We have a weekly track inspection team that has been alerted to the issue, but much of the fencing is in a location that is not visible from the tracks. Because of this, we will periodically send out inspectors to walk the length of the fence to ensure that no new holes have been dug under the fence. As you may remember, the fencing that was installed is highly resistant to cutting, but unfortunately, people have resorted to digging under the structure.

Regarding signage along the fence; we also found that many of the bilingual “no trespassing” signs have been removed. We are having new signs fabricated and will reinstall as soon as possible.

As you know Senator, safety is our number one priority here at NJ TRANSIT, and we will continue to do what is necessary to keep our system as safe as possible. We also appreciate your help in getting the word out to your constituents warning them of the dangers of walking near an active railroad.

Again, your attention to this issue and your support is greatly appreciated.