DOT takes steps to improve safety of U.S. railroad crossings
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) yesterday announced the publication of a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to improve safety at public highway-rail grade crossings nationwide. The proposed rule would require all states and the District of Columbia to develop and implement a new or updated highway-rail grade crossing action plan no later than one year after the effective date of the final rule.
The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) will review states’ action plans for sufficiency and, upon approval, publish the plans on the internet. The DOT says these action plans “will enable states to prioritize infrastructure and equipment investments at railway crossings using a variety of resources, including Federal formula funds and grants.”