The South Florida Regional Transportation Authority (SFRTA) has announced a new partnership with Henderson Behavioral Health to implement a comprehensive suicide prevention initiative aimed at reducing incidents related to railroad trespassing across South Florida.
“This partnership reflects our unwavering commitment to safety and to the well-being of the communities we serve,” said Marci Woodward, Palm Beach County vice mayor and SFRTA chair. “Every life lost on our rail corridor is one too many. By working alongside Henderson Behavioral Health, we are taking a proactive, human-centered approach focused not only on prevention, but on providing hope, awareness, and intervention where it is needed.”
Supported by a $56,500 grant from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), the program will combine targeted public education campaigns with specialized training for SFRTA employees, contractors, and regional partners. The initiative is designed to raise awareness about the dangers of railroad trespassing, identify warning signs of individuals in crisis, and equip frontline personnel with the tools to respond effectively and compassionately.
“For more than 70 years, Henderson Behavioral Health has worked to meet people where they are and remove barriers to care,” said Dr. Steven Ronik, CEO of Henderson Behavioral Health. “This important partnership with Tri-Rail allows us to bring awareness about services that are available to people who are struggling or navigating difficult times. It’s okay not to be okay – you don’t have to go through it alone. Support is here, and help is available.”
According to FRA data, Florida ranked second in the nation for railroad trespassing casualties in 2025, reporting 65 fatalities and 70 injuries. Within the South Florida Rail Corridor, shared by Tri-Rail, Amtrak, and CSXT, there were 12 trespasser strikes in 2025, nine of which resulted in fatalities. The trend has continued into 2026, with Tri-Rail reporting 14 trespasser incidents to date, 10 of which were fatal.
“Our goal is not only to prevent tragedies but to foster a culture of awareness and care,” added Woodward. “This program is about saving lives through education, compassion, and meaningful partnerships.”
SFRTA encourages the public to respect railroad boundaries and to seek help for themselves or others who may be in distress. More information about this effort will be made available on www.tri-rail.com and Tri-Rail social media channels.
About SFRTA
The South Florida Regional Transportation Authority (SFRTA) is a public transportation agency responsible for providing and enhancing regional transit services across South Florida. The agency aims to improve mobility, reduce traffic congestion, and promote sustainable transportation options in one of the nation’s fastest-growing urban areas. SFRTA works in collaboration with local governments and other transportation agencies to expand services, improve infrastructure, and ensure safe, reliable, and efficient transit for commuters.
About Henderson Behavioral Health
Henderson Behavioral Health (HBH) is one of the oldest and largest community-based not-for-profit behavioral healthcare system in South Florida. Since 1953, HBH has helped hundreds of thousands of children, adults and families. HBH’s mission is to serve as the premier provider of accessible, cost effective, and quality behavioral healthcare services to the people of South Florida in order to promote their mental health and well-being. HBH maintains the highest level of CARF (Commission on the Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities) accreditation and has done so continuously for thirty years. For more information visit www.hendersonbh.org.
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