Rail Security Concerns Prompt Safety Summit In Boston
BOSTON (CBS) -- Just in and out of Boston alone, more than a million people a day take to the rails--and it's a matter of safety for state, local, and federal officials now taking a closer look at security.
Headed by Congressman Stephen Lynch, a rail security summit was held Monday in Boston with a host of dignitaries in attendance.
"We have five times as many people travelling by rail as compared to those who fly every day," said Lynch.
Still, 98 percent of the funds go to air travel.
Dangerous examples from across the country and world, like the thwarted Paris attacks, bring the issues here.
"The point is not to neglect what will be a soft target in an era where, around the world, this is more of an issue than it is here in the U.S.," said Congressman William Keating.
Lynch acknowledges the challenges and perhaps even the impossible task of securing the multiple entry points of a train--but this is the start of a conversation that goes even further.
"These rails transport an enormous amount of freight, and that's another issue," said Lynch. "What's being transported? Is it something that could be dangerous?"
Boston is already leading the nation in many such areas, officials say, but this team approach will further meet the challenge.
WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Karyn Regal reports