HRT launches light rail PSA

NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) - Light Rail safety begins with you. That's the message behind a new commercial launched by Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) this week. The commercial delivers an  important message surrounding light rail safety.

In the commercial you see a group of young, chatty occupants driving along in an SUV in downtown Norfolk. The radio is turned up loud, they're using their cell phones, ignoring an important warning sign about an on-coming light rail train -- a gleam of light overcomes the group and the screen goes black. They crash.

HRT has begun testing the trains along the length of the route and advise that as they continue testing more frequently, testing will occur during daytime hours, making it crucial that people be aware of the trains, as both drivers or pedestrians.

"This commercial is intentionally hard hitting," said James Toscano, HRT's Chief Communications Officer. "I know there is great anticipation for light rail to start. But the bottom line is that this is a new mode of transportation and the public must be aware that unsafe behavior could pose a serious, personal risk."

HRT initially launched their safety campaign by targeting young people and introduced a new local mascot, Safe-T , to help convey the importance of train safety. These latest messages are targeted squarely at adults.

The commercial is part of HRT's campaign called Light Rail Safety Starts With You.

For more information, visit www.goHRT.com .