Engineering Solutions to Improving Operations and Safety at Signalized Intersections Near Railroad Grade Crossings with Active Devices

The objective of this research project was to increase safety and reduce the disruption in coordinated operations along arterials with railroad preemption by improving the operation of traffic signal controllers near highway-railroad grade crossings. Significant safety concerns and operational problems exist at railroad-highway grade crossings adjacent to signalized intersections. While the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has developed procedures, in particular the Guide for Determining Time Requirements for Traffic Signal Preemption at Highway-Rail Grade Crossings worksheet, to address many of these concerns and operational problems, additional guidelines are needed to address other potential problems and situations. This research project: 1) determined safety, human factors, and operational problems at traffic signals near grade crossings; 2) identified and evaluated potential solutions to these problems with regard to their effectiveness and applicability in Texas; and 3) combined applicable solutions into a guideline document that will help TxDOT staff recognize and address the special circumstances associated with signals near grade crossings. The research findings can be used to evaluate and improve safety and existing operations, and also design future operations.