NJ law requires rail operators to remove vegetation near crossings

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy last week signed legislation that will require railroads to remove obstructive vegetation near grade crossings.

The new law aims to increase safety for trains, motorists and pedestrians crossing railroad tracks, Murphy administration officials said in a press release.

The bill requires railroad operators to destroy or remove obstructive vegetation upon and within railroad right-of-way at each intersection with a public road or highway, 300 feet from the edge of the public road or highway or such other distance that the New Jersey Commissioner of Transportation determines to be reasonably safe.

"Vegetation can pose a serious hazard to passenger and commercial train traffic, as well as those crossing railroad tracks,” Murphy said. “This legislation will improve safety on our railroads and hold railroad operators responsible for removal of obstructive vegetation at our many railroad crossings.”