MoDOT Announces Rail Safety Plan

MoDOT unveiled recommendations to address 47 passive rail crossings in Missouri, specifically on the three rail lines that carry passenger rail. The study recommends various improvements to enhance safety, reduce exposure, and eliminate grade crossing conflict points. Recommendations vary by location, and include things like advanced warning enhancements, crossing realignment, approach grade improvements, 27 flashing lights and gates upgrades, 17 closures, new roadway connections, and ADA sidewalk enhancements, at a cost of $18.5 million. Nine of the proposed closures are along the Southwest Chief’s route through Clark, Scotland, Adair, and Chariton counties, and upgrades are recommended at crossings near Hurdland, Brashear, Elmer, and Bucklin. Funding will be available to local communities to apply for additional advanced signage on roads as drivers approach a railroad crossing. The next MoDOT study will focus on four railroad corridors across the state that carry freight only. Full details and the crossing-specific recommendations, advance signing program and other future studies on MoDOT’s website.