RAILROAD CROSSINGS – RECOMMENDED LAYOUT

Railroad crossings will require extensive coordination with railroad operators to arrive at a final design, and coordination should begin early in the design process.

While final design will be based upon specific geometry and requirements of railroad, elements in the recommended layout should be considered as basis of design.

  • Trail material to be reinforced concrete at least 25’-0” from the centerline of railway on either side. Where right-of-way is wider, concrete shall be extended to limits of right-of-way.
  • Provide dedicated railroad swing arm for trail or relocate roadway swing arms to stop trail through-traffic when train is present.
  • Detectable warning pavers should be used between 6’-0” minimum and 15’-0” maximum from centerline of nearest rail.
  • While final design will be based upon specific intersection geometry, elements in the recommended layout should be considered as basis of design.
  • Consider implementing special pavements or high visibility striping/signage where trails approach railroad crossing.

Plan Diagram

COMPONENTS: Click below for more information on each component.

1) Primary Trail Surfacing (Concrete Header Optional)

2) Detectable Warning Surfacing