Senators introduce bill to fund grade crossing separations

U.S. Sens. Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) and Roy Blunt (R-Mo.) have introduced the Railroad Crossing Elimination Act, which would provide $500 million annually for five years to support grade crossing separations and other track relocation projects designed to improve safety or reduce congestion.

Although rail is consistently rated one of the safest modes of transportation by the U.S. Department of Transportation, crossings are the second-leading cause of rail-related fatalities. Grade separations would eliminate those intersections, greatly improving safety and mobility for communities across the country, the senators said in a press release.

“Communities throughout Washington state know the safety and congestion challenges posed by grade crossings,” said Cantwell, who chairs the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation. “Too many people are injured or killed at at crossings, and the safest crossing is one that does not exist. Crossings can also delay the movement of people and goods all across the United States, hurting our competitiveness.”

The Association of American Railroads (AAR) endorsed the legislation.

“Railroads strongly support this common-sense solution to increase safety, reduce emissions and enhance transportation," said AAR President and Chief Executive Officer Ian Jefferies in a statement. "AAR looks forward to working with Sen. Cantwell and Sen. Blunt to advance this much-needed program, which will dramatically benefit the communities in which our members serve and improve the mobility of people and goods."

The American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA) also welcomed the new bill.

“While short line railroads strive to work closely with our communities and customers to avoid causing any unwelcome impacts, there are many opportunities throughout the country to eliminate crossings to improve the mobility of people and goods, and improve the health and safety of communities,” said ASLRRA President Chuck Baker in a statement. "If passed, this legislation will help provide funds to our government and tribal partners to allow them to work with us to close, relocate or improve many challenging crossings.”

Read the full text of the bill.