If you go to The University of Memphis then you've inevitably been stopped by the train at some point. It's just a part of campus that everyone has to deal with.
But why?
With multi-million dollar pedestrian bridges on Central Avenue getting approval by The University, many students are left wondering why the south side of the tracks wasn't considered for additional safety.
"If pedestrian bridges are going to be built, then why not spend the extra money for Southern Avenue?" said Tamika Greer, a physics major. "In my opinion, it's more dangerous anyway."
While The University of Memphis does have several proposals for Southern Avenue, there are still many unresolved issues preventing anything from becoming official.
Derek Myers, a police services deputy, said many questions needing answers.
"You run into funding issues," Myers said. "Who is going to fund the project? Is it going to be the state? The city? Or will it be a combination? And what percentage do they all play?"
The south side of campus would be a difficult place to try to build a bridge connecting the parking lot to campus. Southern Avenue is owned by the city and the railroad is privately owned, ensuring that any construction would take a lot of time trying to get construction permits.
"The railroad has the right of way so you would have to convince them to do anything," Myers said.
But many students agree that The U of M should work a little harder to get those permits. The main problem arises when a delayed train parks on the tracks, inconveniencing students needing to cross.
"As far as building it over the train it would be a good idea for people to get over it because it has stopped me several times," senior Lauren Nelson said.
