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A northbound freight train hit a westbound vehicle around 11:45 a.m. Tuesday at Main Street in Edmonds. The driver of the white vehicle had minor injuries and was able to leave her car. As of 12:50 p.m., the train moved and no longer blocked Main Street and Dayton Street. Drivers and pedestrians were able to cross the tracks at either spot.
Edmonds police spokesperson Assistant Chief Josh McClure said BNSF manages the crash site. The incident is under investigation.
It was unclear how the crash occurred. The crossing arm was down and intact 45 minutes after the crash. The vehicle was east of the tracks next to Demetris Woodstone Taverna when it was struck.
The Washington State Ferry just finished unloading when the crash occurred. The ferry loaded riders and vehicles in the holding area and headed to Kingston. Ferry workers at the dock said the ferries would resume service when the train cleared.
We need to prioritize an overpass for access when similar events occur. Thankfully, no one was seriously injured in this event. Lots of people were stuck on the water side of the tracks for an hour (including my wife and I who had been taking a walk along the waterfront). A more serious incident would result in a much longer delay, potentially leading to other emergencies.
The best place for an overpass would’ve been down by the dog park. Unfortunately, the Edmond city council did not secure the funding to move the ferry dock when they had the chance. An overpass in the middle of town has already been voted down. So we are stuck with this ticking time bomb. Remember the instance of the woman in labor who had to be lifted through the rail car?
Over pass is not needed. People need to pay attention while driving.