05-14-2014 Council Agenda - Laserfiche WebLink

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4.0 Proposed Alternatives The following is a discussion regarding the feasibility of installing SSMs at each of the six crossings. One -way streets and grade separations are impractical for the City of Little Canada. 4.1 Center Medians Center medians have become a popular SSM alternative for local communities because they can be inexpensive compared to other SSM options and are easy to install. The rules require that the medians be raised and be a minimum of 100 feet long. In certain situations, medians can be shortened to 60 feet, If a median is less than 6 inches high, delineator signs must be installed on the median. 4.2 Four Quadrant Gates Four quadrant gate systems have two additional exit gates installed compared to a traditional signal system These exit gates operate on a delay to the normal gates to allow vehicles to clear the crossing. The addition of the two exit gates requires a complete rewiring of the crossing circuitry and generally will require the installation of loop detectors in the pavement. Loop detectors would detect if a vehicle is stopped on the track and would keep the existing gate in the up position, so the vehicle is not trapped between two gates. The rewiring of the signal system is needed because the exit gate circuitry is complex and needs a new controller and additional battery backup capacity. The CP's policy is that the Road Authority will be responsible for the installation and maintenance of the loop detectors and the two additional gates. Detailed cost estimates to upgrade are not available at this stage of a project but the cost will be around $350,000 to $450,000 plus the maintenance costs of $2,000 to $3,000 per year per crossing. Complete new signal systems may be required. 4.3 Crossing Closure Permanent closure of a crossing is the removal of the crossing surface and roadway approaches. There are also provisions in the rules for temporary closures, usually based on time of day. The rules require that a positive indication to the railroad is required that the crossing barricades are in place. This is normally done with electronic gates and signal indications. 4.4 Stationary Horns Wayside or stationary horns are a relatively new technology that has recently been approved for general installation. The wayside horn replaces the train mounted horn with a horn mounted at the crossing. The wayside hom is activated by the crossing signal system. The Road Authority is generally responsible for installation and maintenance of the system. The noise level is comparable to a train horn, but it decreases the noise impact area. The stationary horn works well in non- residential areas, because the immediate area near the crossing is subjected to the full noise of the horn for 25 seconds, rather than a gradual increase as the train approaches. Railroad signals with gates are required when stationary horns are installed. The wayside hom was authorized in the quiet zone regulations but it is technically not in a quiet zone. It is considered the same risk level as a train mounted horn. Stationary horn costs range from $75,000 to $125,000, plus a monthly maintenance cost. LITTC 126672 Page 6 11 Railroad Quiet Zone Report City of Little Canada