SELECTIVE CROSSING CLOSURES-A NEGLECTED OPTION IN CROSSING SAFETY PROGRAMS

The major objective of a well-founded, selective crossing closure program is to maximize the safety benefits derived from each dollar spent for new automatic crossing signalization devices. In looking at the need for a crossing as it relates to a possible closure, it is necessary to make a thorough study of the service provided to the public by the crossing, including the following specific considerations: The general area served by the crossing and the effect of a closure on each business, residence, school and hospital located in the area involved. The role of the street in the traffic pattern of the area. The growth trends in the area affected by the crossing and future plans for development. The availability of alternate routes, and the additional circuity that would be invovled using these routes. A study of the train use of the crossings. A safety cost/benefit analysis that compares the cost of protecting the crossing with automatic devices and maintaining those devices against the estimated cost of accidents. Determining the role the crossing plays in serving emergency needs.

• Corporate Authors:

  American Railway Engineering Association

  59 East Van Buren Street
  Chicago, IL  United States  60605
• Authors:
  • Astle, D J
• Publication Date: 1976-12

Media Info

• Pagination: p. 245-246
• Serial:
  • AREA BULLETIN
  • Volume: 78
  • Issue Number: 660
  • Publisher: American Railway Engineering Association

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Automatic control; Benefit cost analysis; Costs; Crashes; Emergencies; Railroad grade crossings; Railroad trains; Safety; Traffic flow; Travel patterns
• Uncontrolled Terms: Traffic patterns
• Subject Areas: Finance; Highways; Operations and Traffic Management; Railroads; Safety and Human Factors; Vehicles and Equipment;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00148883
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Apr 27 1977 12:00AM