Ohio panel backs federal effort to curb blocked grade crossings

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) this week filed comments with the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) in support of its proposed information collection request for blocked railroad crossings.

The FRA is seeking U.S. Office of Management and Budget approval to collect information from the public through its website and mobile applications regarding the frequency, location and impact of grade crossings blocked by slow-moving or idling trains. The FRA also would create a dedicated portal for law enforcement to submit information about blocked railroad crossings.

Collected data could then be used to analyze blocked crossings and propose solutions for them, PUCO officials said in a press release. 

PUCO recommended the FRA find ways to expand the scope of the collection activities and explore providing real-time or anticipated blocked crossing data to local and state emergency medical services, fire and law enforcement officials.

The public comment period closed yesterday.