Chapter 1: Introduction
Anchor: #i999662Section 1: General
Anchor: #i999667Introduction
Highway-railroad grade crossings represent the physical intersection of two distinctly different modes of transportation, which vary considerably in their equipment, traveled ways, and methods of control and operation. Proper design and construction of new grade crossings helps ensure safe and efficient operation. This includes proper selection, design, and location of signs, pavement markings, and warning devices. Proper maintenance of existing crossings and associated warning devices helps to achieve continued safety and efficiency.
Since 1917 it has been necessary to make arrangements with the railroad companies to cross their privately owned right-of-way with roadways. After a series of condemnation lawsuits both parties realized it would be unproductive to continue disputing over the state’s right to cross the rights-of-way. Also as spur tracks were built, railroad companies realized they had to cross public roadways to reach their customers. It became mutually advantageous to develop guidelines about grade crossings and grade separations so that lawsuits between the state and railroad companies could be avoided.
Anchor: #i999682Purpose
This volume addresses highway-railroad grade crossing safety, replanking, and agreements. This volume outlines the procedures used by TxDOT employees in operations involving railroad companies, work on railroad right-of-way, and the development and execution of railroad programs managed by the Traffic Operations Division (TRF).
Anchor: #i999692Users of this Volume
This volume is intended for use by Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) personnel.