Eliminating Rail Level Crossings: Feasibility and Challenges

Introduction

The issue of rail level crossings has long been a subject of concern and discussion. Safety barriers and technological advances have significantly improved the protection of pedestrians and vehicles, but the dream of eliminating level crossings altogether remains elusive. This article explores the possibility and feasibility of this change, examining the economics, engineering, and real-world examples.

Existing Practices and Trends

Demonstrating that such an approach can be successful is the London Underground, which does not have any level crossings. Similarly, the Docklands Light Railway, the North London Line, and HS1 (High Speed 1) from the Channel Tunnel to St Pancras also do not feature level crossings. While HS2 is still in the planning stages, it too aims to avoid level crossings.

However, the Tyneside Metro in Newcastle has only 5 level crossings, which explains why they still exist. There are efforts in the UK to replace all level crossings, but this is a long-term goal.

The Financial and Engineering Challenges

For rail companies and local councils to completely eliminate level crossings, they would need substantial financial resources and the power to acquire extra land. The cost of converting existing crossings is prohibitively high. In the United States, for example, there are an estimated 250,000 highway grade crossings. Converting all of these into overpasses or underpasses could cost between $500 and $1.25 trillion, an amount roughly equivalent to 22 to 56 years of the US economic output, which is about $22.3 trillion.

The engineering challenge is also significant. To build a bridge for trains, it must withstand a much greater load compared to regular vehicles. Converting level crossings to overpasses or underpasses requires not just the construction of infrastructure but also careful planning to ensure safety and efficiency.

Real-World Examples and Lessons

While the Norfolk Southern–Gregson Street Overpass in Durham, North Carolina, serves as a prime example of why level crossings might need to be reinforced. This underpass is also known locally as 'The Can Opener.' Despite its low clearance of 11 feet 8 inches (3.556 meters), numerous warning signs, and height restriction devices, it continues to see accidents with large vehicles that are too tall to fit underneath the bridge.

A 2019 project was undertaken to raise the bridge by 8 inches (20 cm) to 12 feet 6 inches (3.76 meters), but even this height adjustment does not guarantee safety, as accidents continue to occur. This serves as a stark reminder that even advanced infrastructure solutions can face challenges in ensuring complete safety.

Conclusion

The idea of eliminating all level crossings is both ambitious and costly. While technological advancements and ongoing projects indicate progress, the financial and engineering hurdles make a complete transition complex. Careful planning and robust infrastructure must be implemented to ensure the safety and efficiency of rail and road transport systems.