Predictive Mobility Rail Safety System Now Installed at Rail Crossings in Wisconsin Rapids

A predictive mobility rail safety system is now installed at 12 rail crossings in the City of Wisconsin Rapids.

The system is fully operational, and the Android and IOS apps are available for the public to download and utilize starting November 1. The rail safety system continuously monitors train movement and delivers warnings through an app before a train reaches a crossing, providing timely information to emergency responders and motorists.

This technology improves routing for fire and ambulance crews, enhancing emergency response efficiency, and reduces traffic congestion. The sensors do not identify drivers or perform automated license plate recognition. The sensors are not used for traffic enforcement.

• To download the Android app, visit: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.linqthingz.trainlinqandroid&hl=en_US
• To download the IOS app, visit: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/trainlinq/id6762288153
• Beginning on November 2, training materials will be available online: https://www.wirapids.gov/m/faq?cat=26

Mayor Matt Zacher said, “The City thoroughly evaluated a range of potential solutions to traffic delays at rail crossings. After careful consideration, this predictive technology emerged as the most effective, cost‐conscious option. I am pleased that our emergency personnel will have this tool to support their critical work, and that it will help residents avoid long delays at rail crossings.”

A Wisconsin Department of Transportation grant is funding 80% of the project and the local cost share of 20% is being funded through the Downtown Tax Incremental Financing District.

To learn more about Tax Incremental Financing, visit: www.wirapids.gov/597/Tax-Incremental-Financing. In response to growing concern regarding traffic delays at rail intersections, a railroad crossing alternatives feasibility study was completed in 2023.

That year, the Public Works Committee and Common Council discussed the feasibility study, including various alternatives the City could consider to mitigate delays associated with rail traffic.

Discussions continued in 2025. Improving predictability of rail crossings for emergency vehicles and efficiency of pedestrian and vehicular crossings, while balancing budgetary considerations were top priorities discussed in meetings.

A proposal from LinqThingz for a predictive mobility rail safety system was approved by the Common Council at their October 21, 2025, meeting.