Relocation

Other alternatives to highway-rail crossing improvement programs are relocation of the highway or railroad, or railroad consolidation. These alternatives provide a solution to railroad impacts on communities such as noise, traffic delays, and the land use “barrier” ef fect of a rail corridor; however, the costs associated with relocation or consolidation can be high. Benefits of railroad relocation in addition to those associated with crossing safety and operations include improved environment resulting from decreased noise and air pollution, improved land use and appearance, and improved railroad efficiency. Railroad relocation and consolidation may also eliminate obstructions to emergency vehicles and provide safer movement of hazardous materials. Collectively, the tangible and intangible benefits may justify the relocation or consolidation of railroad facilities; any one of the benefits alone might not provide sufficient justification for the expense. Many factors should be considered in planning for railroad relocation. The new location should provide proper alignment, minimum grades, and adequate drainage. Sufficient ROW should be available to provide the necessary horizontal clearances, additional rail facilities as service grows, and a buffer for abating noise and vibrations. The number of crossings should be minimized. The railroad corridor can be further isolated from residential and commercial activity by zoning the property adjacent to the railroad as light and heavy industrial. Businesses and industry desiring rail service can locate in this area. Highway relocations are sometimes accomplished to provide improved highway traffic flow around communities and other developed areas. Planning for highway relocations should consider routes that eliminate crossings by avoiding the need for access over railroad tracks or by providing grade separations.