Roadside Approaches

In addition to typical roadway maintenance, the following are a few special considerations maintenance forces need to keep in mind on roadway approaches to a crossing:

•Roadway maintenance equipment can damage crossing surfaces or the adjacent track. Repairs adjacent to the crossing should be done with care.

•Maintenance personnel should be aware of potential train movements and should be alert for trains. Highway authorities should coordinate with the railroad before conducting roadway maintenance in the vicinity of a crossing, and most railroads require use of a flagman if maintenance activities are conducted within 8 feet of the near rail.

•Drainage from the crossing or track structure should not be blocked when maintaining pipes and ditches.

•Snow removal and ice control should be done with care. Snow should not be plowed such that longitudinal piles extend across the tracks. Snowplows can damage crossing surfaces. Chemicals can corrode track and fittings and can short ‑out track circuits. Snow and slush should not be pushed or carried onto the crossing.

•Where possible, resurfacing operations should be coordinated with the railroad. Resurfacing lifts should be feathered near the crossing so as not to leave the crossing surface in a hole or dip. Drainage should be checked to assure that the additional roadway height has not directed water onto the crossing surface. All necessary steps should be taken to prevent interference between resurfacing equipment and personnel and trains.