Arizona rail safety and security resource guide

              State of Arizona
Rail Safety & Security
Resource Guide
November 2007
i
Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be an all- inclusive
resource. The guide is a compilation of information from many sources and entities. The
information contained herein is subject to amendment and change without notice and
therefore the accuracy of the contents cannot be guaranteed. Readers are cautioned
not to rely solely on the guide and should do further research to ensure accuracy of the
information. Legal advice should be sought as appropriate.
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Acknowledgement of Participants
Arizona Corporation Commission ( ACC)
Arizona Department of Transportation ( ADOT)
Arizona Operation Lifesaver ( AZOL)
BNSF Railway ( BNSF)
Department of Homeland Security ( DHS)
Federal Railroad Administration ( FRA- USDOT)
Federal Highway Administration ( FHWA- USDOT)
Federal Motors Carrier Safety Administration ( FMCSA)
Governor’s Office of Highway Safety ( GOHS)
METRO ( Light Rail)
Transportation Safety Administration ( TSA- DHS)
Union Pacific Railroad ( UPRR)
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Preface
This plan will focus on targeted areas of railroad safety with emphasis on data driven,
state specific needs identified by the “ USDOT Highway- Rail Crossing Safety and
Trespass Prevention Action Plan” developed by the United States Department of
Transportation. Initially, the plan was developed to help guide efforts by federal and
state governments, rail industry and public rail safety organizations to reduce train-vehicle
collisions and trespass incidents. While the action plan does highlight specific
programs and activities, it is intended to provide flexibility to the railroads, highways,
public transit and communities in responding effectively to real world conditions. The
action plan emphasizes a multi- modal approach for improving safety at the nation’s
277,722 highway- rail crossings, and preventing trespassing along more than 145,000
miles of track and right of way. Arizona currently has 1800 grade crossings and
approximately 3,000 miles of railroad and rail transit track.
This document will be made available to government agencies, police departments, fire
departments, schools, developers and businesses in order to better assist in the
coordination of all areas of transportation planning, development, safety and security in
Arizona.
Table of Contents
Disclaimer..................................................................................................................... ................. i
Acknowledgement of Participants ............................................................................................. ii
Federal Highway Administration ( FHWA- USDOT) ................................................................. ii
Federal Motors Carrier Safety Administration ( FMCSA)........................................................ ii
Preface........................................................................................................................ ................. iii
Introduction: ............................................................................................................................... .. 1
Exhibit 1 ............................................................................................................................... ..... 1
Exhibit 2 ............................................................................................................................... ..... 1
Exhibit 3 ............................................................................................................................... ..... 2
Exhibit 4 ............................................................................................................................... ..... 2
Mission........................................................................................................................ .................. 3
Vision......................................................................................................................... .................... 3
Goal ............................................................................................................................... ................ 3
Roles of Federal, State, Local Agencies and Private Corporations:.................................... 3
Arizona Corporation Commission.......................................................................................... 3
Arizona Department of Transportation ( ADOT)................................................................... 4
Arizona Governor's Office of Highway Safety ( GOHS)...................................................... 4
Arizona Operation Lifesaver ( AZOL)..................................................................................... 4
Federal Highway Administration ( FHWA) ............................................................................ 4
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration ( FMCSA)...................................................... 5
Federal Railroad Administration ( FRA)................................................................................. 5
Federal Transit Administration ( FTA).................................................................................... 6
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ( NHTSA)................................................. 6
Transportation Security Administration ( TSA) ..................................................................... 6
Railroads within Arizona.............................................................................................................. 7
Exhibit 5 ............................................................................................................................... ..... 8
The Union Pacific Railroad ( UP)............................................................................................ 9
BNSF Railway........................................................................................................................ 11
Federal/ Railroad Grade Crossing Safety Program........................................................... 12
Community Education/ Law Enforcement/ Awareness ...................................................... 12
Grade Crossing Consolidation Programs........................................................................... 13
Track and Signal Inspection and Maintenance ................................................................. 13
Vegetation Control ................................................................................................................. 13
Crossing Safety Technology and Management Processes ............................................ 14
Operations Monitoring Programs......................................................................................... 14
BNSF Crossing Closure Procedures................................................................................... 14
BNSF Public Private Partnerships....................................................................................... 15
Stopping Safely at Farm- Rail Crossings: ............................................................................... 21
Track Facts.......................................................................................................................... ....... 22
Federal Highway Administration ( FHWA- USDOT) - www. fhwa. dot. gov ........................... 24
Federal Motors Carrier Safety Administration ( FMCSA) - www. fmcsa. dot. gov ............... 24
Rail Agency Contacts: ............................................................................................................... 24
Rail Safety- Security Contacts: ................................................................................................. 25
Railroad Contacts:...................................................................................................................... 26
Short Line Railroads: ................................................................................................................. 26
Terminal / Industrial / Switching Railroads:............................................................................ 27
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Passenger / Tourist Railroads / Rail Tours ............................................................................ 28
Rail Transit Contacts: ................................................................................................................ 29
Appendix I.............................................................................................................................. ..... 30
Criminal Trespass and Burglary .............................................................................................. 30
Criminal Damage to Property................................................................................................... 30
Traffic Signs, Signals, and Markings....................................................................................... 30
Special Stops Required............................................................................................................. 30
This guide is intended to provide resources, contacts and information regarding
Arizona Rail Safety and Security.
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Introduction:
Each year, across the nation, thousands of train/ vehicle collisions and pedestrian trespass incidents occur at our
nation’s highway- roadway- rail grade crossings and along railroad rights- of- way that result in hundreds of deaths
and injuries. These deaths and injuries are a serious concern for the state of Arizona that ranked 6th in the nation
with 20 trespass fatalities and 25th in crossing fatalities for the year 2006. During the last three years, 10 people
were killed and 57 injured when they failed to comply with the state vehicle code concerning railroad warning
signs and signals at crossings.
Exhibit 1
Exhibit 2
Trespasser Deaths - For All States
January - December 1997 - 2006
533 536
479 463
511
540
501
475 464
530
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
1997 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 2006
Total Deaths At Highway- Rail Grade Crossings
For All States
January - December 1997 - 2006
461
431
402 425 421
357
334
372 357 362
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
1997 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 2006
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Arizona is one of the fastest growing states in the nation. This level of growth combined with an increase of rail,
rail transit and vehicle traffic brings new challenges in the development of an efficient transportation infrastructure.
“ We know that we all share this problem. Just as we share the problem, we share the solution.”
Exhibit 3
Exhibit 4
Total Trespasser Deaths and Injuries
For Arizona
January - December 1997 - 2006
Injuries 3 10 15 14 9 11 17 21 15 22
Deaths 18 15 14 15 9 14 10 17 21 20
97 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 2006
Total Deaths and Injuries At Highway- Rail Grade Crossings
For Arizona
January - December 1997 - 2006
Injuries 27 35 33 29 29 19 39 30 39 48
Deaths
5 4 1 8 6 0 7 2 2 6
97 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 2006
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In order to address these issues, an inter- agency, private and public rail safety partnership was formed to prevent
rail crossing and trespass fatalities. In the future, communities may experience additional train horns as train
traffic increases and highway- rail crossings are added to accommodate population increases. Improved highway
grade crossing safety and trespass prevention depends upon enhanced cooperation, communication, and
education among responsible parties if incidents and fatalities are to be reduced significantly. In order to
accomplish these goals, agencies must be proactive in working to reduce collisions and prevent fatalities. The
USDOT in coordination with the Arizona Corporation Commission and Arizona Department of Transportation has
placed the highest priority on transportation safety.
Mission
To promote and implement a rail safety action plan to reduce the number of highway- rail grade crossing and
trespassing incidents within the state. The plan will establish and support best practices in rail safety and security
including engineering design improvements, public education and law enforcement.
Vision
To establish and provide a plan that continues to allow rail transportation, within and through Arizona, to be
efficient, safe and secure.
Goal
The overall goal of this plan is to reduce the total number of rail and grade crossing related fatalities and injuries.
Roles of Federal, State, Local Agencies and Private Corporations:
Arizona Corporation Commission
www. cc. state. az. us/
Our Mission is to ensure that the citizens of Arizona, as well as railroad employees throughout the State, have a
railroad system that is operated and maintained in as safe a manner as possible.
We are responsible for the inspection of:
Railroad Tracks:
Commission staff examines railroad track for proper alignment, profile and geometrical surface. Curves
and spirals are measured for uniformity and proper super elevation. We also examine switches, derails
and other track related structures for compliance with the federal minimum safety standards for track.
Initial track inspections are done from a track- mounted highway vehicle and sometimes by walking.
Locomotives and Railcars:
Commission staff examines various components of the several braking systems on railcars and
locomotives. There are also certain safety features on locomotives having to do with the very high
amperage generated by them that are checked for proper operation and the required periodic inspection.
Locomotives are also inspected for proper operation of the horn, sidelights, headlights, bells and for
compliance with all the applicable federal regulations.
Railroad Operating Practices:
Commission staff examines the railroads for compliance with extensive federal regulations in the
operating practices area. Included are such things as the proper certification of locomotive engineers and
trainmen, drug and alcohol testing of them, and observation of the efficiency testing of these employees
by company officers, which is done to see that employees are properly observing wayside signals when
moving their trains.
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Railroad Crossing Warning Signals, Train Control Signals and Devices:
Commission staff examines the various electronic crossing warning devices for proper operating voltages,
grounding, etc., for compliance with federal regulations. Similarly, Staff also examines train control signals
for compliance with federal regulations.
Transportation of Hazardous Materials by Rail:
Commission staff examines shipments of hazardous materials on the railroad for compliance with the
applicable federal regulations. Inspections consist of examination of tank cars and containers on flat cars
( COFC) for proper securement and placarding. Inspections are also done at shipper and receiver facilities
around the state for proper compliance with the loading, unloading and securement standards.
Railroad Grade Crossings:
Commission staff also examines grade crossings for proper maintenance and surface conditions. The
Commission also regulates and monitors the amount of time a train can block a railroad crossing.
To report a blocked crossing, or any other railroad issue to the Commission, e- mail us at
cwatson@ azcc. gov. You may also visit the Arizona Corporation Commission’s web site.
For the railroad safety section go to the rules section of the page on the right hand side, click on
Commission Procedural Rules, and it will take you to the railroad section.
Arizona Department of Transportation ( ADOT)
www. azdot. gov
The role of Public Transportation Division ( PTD) of the Arizona Department of Transportation is to ensure a
multi- modal approach to mobility, congestion and air quality issues throughout the State. Public Transportation
Division staff administers several Federal Transit Administration grant programs, provides technical assistance
and expertise to local transit agencies and decision makers, coordinates and funds state transit and rail planning
efforts, and sets and monitors light rail system safety standards. Through these efforts, we are dedicated to
working with our partners to create better communities by identifying and providing options for safe and reliable
public transportation.
Arizona Governor's Office of Highway Safety ( GOHS)
http:// www. agohs. gov
GOHS is the focal point for highway safety issues in Arizona. GOHS provides leadership by developing,
promoting, and coordinating programs; influencing public and private policy; and increasing public awareness of
highway safety.
Through the Director of the Governor's Office of Highway Safety, a channel of communication and understanding
has been developed between the Governor's Office, the Legislature, state agencies, political subdivisions, and
activist groups concerning all aspects of the statewide highway safety program.
Arizona Operation Lifesaver ( AZOL)
http:// www. AZOL
AZOL is a non- profit, continuing public education program established to end collisions, deaths and injuries at
places where roadways cross train tracks, and on railroad rights- of- way. Operation Lifesaver programs are
sponsored cooperatively by federal, state, and local government agencies; highway safety organizations, and the
nation’s railroads.
Operation Lifesaver ( OLI) is a non- profit, international continuing public education program first established in
1972 to end collisions, deaths and injuries at places where roadways cross train tracks, and on railroad rights- of-way.
Operation Lifesaver programs are sponsored cooperatively by federal, state, and local government
agencies; highway safety organizations, and the nation’s railroads.
Federal Highway Administration ( FHWA)
http:// safety. fhwa. dot. gov/ facts/ index. htm
FHWA is charged with the broad responsibility of ensuring that America’s roads and highways continue to be the
safest and most technologically up- to- date. Although State, local, and tribal governments own most of the
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Nation’s highway system. Our annual budget of more than $ 30 billion is funded by fuel and motor vehicle excise
taxes. The budget is primarily divided between two programs. Federal- aid funding to State and local
governments; and Federal Lands Highways funding for national parks, national forests, Indian lands, and other
land under Federal stewardship.
Safety on our highways is FHWA’s top priority. More than 42,000 people are killed annually in traffic crashes in
this country. That equated to about 115 fatalities a day. We must find, and we are finding, new opportunities and
developing new technologies for savings lives. FHWA is aggressively advancing the activities and projects that
we already know prevent crashes and that reduce fatalities and serious injuries when crashes do happen. FHWA
is focusing its safety program on addressing three crash types that relate most highly to fatalities; roadway
departures, intersections ( highway- rail grade crossings), and pedestrians. We also partner with others in DOT to
increase the use of safety belts, as thousands of lives could be saved if every vehicle occupant would simply
buckle- up.
In addition FHWAS conducts safety research technology and outreach projects that contribute to multiple
objectives. These include speed management to encourage wider adoption of safe travel speeds appropriate for
road and travel conditions; safety management to endure that resources are allocated to achieve the maximum
returns in reducing the severity and frequency of crashed; human- centered systems to incorporate human factors
into all aspects of highway design; work zone safety improvements; and a variety of safety outreach efforts.
FHWA makes safety a top priority and we continue to work toward making America’s highway system one of the
safest in the world. For information on safety facts, visit the FHWA Web site.
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration ( FMCSA)
http:// www. fmsca. dot. gov
FMCSA was established as a separate administration within the U. S. Department of Transportation ( DT) on
January 1, 2000, pursuant to the Motor Carrier Safety Improvement Act of 1999. FMCSA is headquartered in
Washington, DC and employs more than 1,000 people in all 50 States and in the District of Columbia, all
dedicated to improving the safety of commercial motor vehicles ( CMC) and saving lives.
One of the initiatives the FMCSA is undertaking to save lives on the Nation’s highways to intensify our focus on
highway- rail grade crossing safety. FMCSA has launched a nationwide educational campaign to remind
commercial motor vehicle drivers of the precautions they must take at highway- rail grade crossings.
In carrying out its safety mandate to reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities involving large trucks and buses,
FMSCA:
Develops and enforces data- driven regulations that balance motor carrier ( truck and bus companies) safety with
industry efficiency;
Harnesses safety information systems to focus on higher risk carriers in enforcing the safety regulations:
Targets educational messages to carriers, commercial drivers, and the public and partners with stakeholders
including Federal, State, and local enforcement agencies, the motor carrier industry, safety groups, and organized
labor on efforts to reduce bus and truck- related crashes.
Federal Railroad Administration ( FRA)
http:// www. fra. dot. gov/
The FRA was created by the Department of Transportation Act of 1966 ( 49 U. S. C. 103, Section 3 ( e) ( 1)). The
purpose of FRA is to promulgate and enforce rail safety regulations; administer development in support of
improved railroad safety and rehabilitation of Northeast Corridor rail passenger service: and consolidate
government support of rail transportation activities. Today, the FRA is one of ten agencies within the U. S.
Department of Transportation concerned with intermodal transportation. It operates through seven divisions
under the offices of the Administrator and Deputy Administrator.
The Office of Safety promotes and regulates safety throughout the Nation’s railroad industry. It employs more
than 415 Federal safety inspectors, who operate out of eight regional offices nationally. FRA inspectors
specialize in five safety disciplines and numerous grade crossing and trespass- prevention initiatives. Track,
Signal and Train Control, Motive Power and Equipment, Operating Practices, Hazardous Materials, and Highway-
Rail Grade Crossing Safety. The Office trains and certifies State safety inspectors to enforce Federal rail safety
regulations. Central to the success of the rail safety effort is the ability to understand the nature of rail- related
accidents and to analyze trends in railroad safety. To do this, the Office of Safety collects rail accident/ incident
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data from the railroads and converts this information into meaningful statistical tables, charts, and reports.
Federal Transit Administration ( FTA)
http:// www. fta. dot. gov
FTA is one of 10 modal administrations within the U. S. Department of Transportation. Headed by an Administrator
who is appointed by the President of the United States, FTA functions through a Washington, DC, headquarters
office and 10 regional offices which assist transit agencies in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico,
the U. S. Virgin Islands, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, and American Samoa.
The Federal Transit Administration administers federal funding to support a variety of locally planned,
constructed, and operated public transportation systems throughout the U. S., including buses, subways, light rail,
commuter rail, streetcars, monorail, passenger ferry boats, inclined railways, and people movers.
The Arizona Department of Transportation was chosen by Governor Jane Dee Hull on 2001 as the State Safety
Oversight agency to oversee safety and security responsibilities on FTA sponsored Fixed Rail Guideway
Systems.
In response to congressional concern regarding the potential for catastrophic accidents and security incidents on
rail transit systems, the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 ( ISTEA) added Section 28 to the
Federal Transit Act ( codified at 49 CFR U. S. C. Section 5330). This section requires the Federal Transit
Administration ( FTA) to issue a Rule creating the first state- managed oversight program for rail transit safety and
security.
FTA published “ Rail Fixed Guideway Systems; State Safety Oversight” on December 27, 1995 ( to be codified at
49 CFR Part 659), subsequently referred to as State Safety Oversight Rule or Part 659. Only those states with
Rail Fixed Guideway Systems ( RFGS) meeting the definition specified in Part 659 must comply with FTA’s State
Safety Oversight Rule.
In 1991, Congress required for the first time that the Federal Transit Administration ( FTA) establish a program
providing for the State- conducted oversight of the safety and security of rail systems not regulated by the Federal
Railroad Administration ( FRA).
The tasks of an SSO agency include developing system safety program standards, then reviewing, approving and
monitoring rail transit agencies to so that they are compliant with the SSO. This includes all safety, security and
emergency management plans.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ( NHTSA)
http:// www. nhtsa. dot. gov
NHTSA is dedicated to achieving the highest standards of excellence in motor vehicle and highway safety. The
agency strives to exceed the expectations of its customers through its core values of Integrity, Service and
Leadership. NHTSA provides leadership to the motor vehicle and highway safety community through the
development of innovative approaches to reducing motor vehicle crashes and injuries.
The department has developed and interagency rail- highway crossing safety action plan to address the train-motor
vehicle crash problem. In response to this initiative, both NHTSA and FHWA are directing our respective
field staff to advise States that Section 402 funds may be used to address significant rail- highway crossing
problems. NHTSA has produced an excellent resource entitled Rail- Highway Crossing Safety Fatal Crash and
Demographic Descriptions which should prove valuable in the problem identification phase of the States
assessments.
Transportation Security Administration ( TSA)
http:// www. tsa. gov
TSA protects the Nation’s transportation systems to ensure freedom of movement fro people and commerce. The
TSA continuously sets the standard for excellence in transportation security through its people processes and
technology.
Our nation’s railroads, both passenger and freight, are important pieces of the transportation network. The
London subway and Madrid rail bombings demonstrated the critical need for protecting trains from terrorist attack.
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Our work focuses greater information sharing, increased training and public awareness, and providing greater
assistance and funding for rail transit activities. Grants and awards to rail systems around the country total
millions of dollars yearly.
While state and local governments are primarily responsible for rail security, we have taken a number of steps to
ensure the security of these crucial assets by working in concert with the Department of Homeland Security, other
federal agencies, industry experts, and our local counterparts.
Railroads within Arizona
Arizona’s railroad network is shown in the 2007 Arizona Railroads map. The network is comprised of two Class I
railroads. BNSF Railway ( BNSF) and Union, and a number of short line, terminal, industrial, switching, passenger
and tourist railroads. In addition, Arizona has one single- purpose coal haul railroad. The Black Mesa & Lake
Powell Railroad ( BLKM), which is isolated and not connected to the nationwide railroad system as every other
Arizona railroad is. Currently, there are over 2,200 railroad miles in Arizona.
Arizona’s railroads originate five million tons of freight railroad traffic from locations within Arizona, including glass
and stone products, waste and scrap, primary metal products, chemicals and metallic ores. Arizona’s freight
railroads bring to Arizona and terminate within the state almost 31 million tons of freight traffic including coal
lumber and wood products, glass and stone products, farm products and food products.
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Exhibit 5
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The Union Pacific Railroad ( UP)
UP is the largest railroad in North America, operating in the western two- thirds of the United States. The railroad
serves 23 states, linking every major West Coast and Gulf Coast port and provides service to the east through its
four major gateways Chicago, St. Louis, Memphis and New Orleans. The railroad has one of the most diversified
commodity mixes in the industry including chemicals, coal, food and food products, forest products, grain and
grain products, intermodal, metals and minerals and automobiles and part.
24 hour Emergency Hotline 1- 888- UPRR- COP
“ I can see somebody trying to break into one of your freight cars…” “ There’s a truck stalled on the tracks
out here…” “ Can anybody fix this crossing gate?” This and many other types of critical incident calls come
in daily to UP’s version of 911, the Risk Management Communications Center ( RMCC). Calls are
answered in an average of eight seconds and the proper response is initiated immediately. Local police
departments are encouraged to call the RMSS hotline instead of the Herriman Dispatching Center.
Public Safety
Union Pacific strives not only for a safe internal operation, it is also committed to public safety. To meet
this commitment, UP supports an array of projects aimed at preventing highway- rail grade crossing
collisions and trespasser fatalities and injuries. As a result of UP’s safety policies, there have been steady
decreases in highway- rail crossing incidents and drops in injuries and fatalities as compared to earlier
years.
Public Safety Projects
Public Education is critical to UP’s efforts to promote public safety. One major educational tool is
Operation Lifesaver, a nonprofit, nationwide public education program created by UP in 1972 and later
embraced by the railroad industry. The program was designed to eliminate collisions, deaths and injuries
at highway- rail grade crossings and trespass incidents on rail road rights- of- way. The program enlists the
support of local governments, law enforcement and the news media to urge the public to “ take care at
crossings.” Hundreds of UP employees regularly volunteer to staff Operation Lifesaver information
booths, talk to school and civic groups and otherwise help spread the public safety message. For more
information about Operation Lifesaver, call 1- 800- 537- 6224.
Crossing Visibility
UP’s goal is to keep brush, trees and tall grasses clear from all public grade crossings in order to ensure
greater visibility. Crews are constantly working to keep visibility clear near the crossing and for the width
of the right- of- way in all four quadrants. If you have concerns about crossing visibility, please call the
Union Pacific Crossing Desk at 1- 800- 848- 8715.
Crossing Accident Reduction Enforcement ( CARE)
Too many motorists ignore warning signals at crossings, even to the point of driving around lowered
gates. UP train crews see this all the time but now, through CARE, offending motorists are being stopped
and ticketed, by both local police and UP special agents. Several states have given railroad special
agents the same authority that police have to issue citations.
Near Hit Program
This program gives train crews and other UP employees a way to report instances of vehicles that
narrowly avoided being hit by a locomotive. Motorists identified through license numbers or other sources
are sent letters which cite the incident and serve, hopefully, to trigger a change in driving behavior. In
1998, nearly 1200 “ near hits” were reported.
Crossing Closure
The safest crossing is no crossing. Therefore, UP and the Federal Railroad Administration are working
with communities to identify and eliminate thousands of unneeded public private crossings.
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Employee Safety
“ Safety is my responsibility” are the daily watchwords fro all UP employees. At Up, these are words to
“ live by”. Over the last five years, on- the- job injuries at UP have steadily declined as a result of employee
safety measures. UP has established various safety committees, team safety leaders, a safety hotline,
safety newsletters, in- field employee feedback programs, a constant supply of safety/ protective
equipment and first aid kits and supplies as well as employee safety training sessions.
Union Pacific’s Involvement in the Quiet Zone Establishment Process
Having a railroad’s safety perspective throughout the quiet zone establishment process is recommended;
therefore, Union Pacific Railroad will actively participate in quiet zone projects affecting Union Pacific rail
lines. Union Pacific representatives will participate in diagnostic meetings and provide the necessary
railroad information required in the Final Rule.
The Final Rule outlines two types of safety improvement options for upgrading a quiet zone to meet FRA
safety standards:
• Supplemental Safety Measures ( SSMs) or
• Alternative Safety Meaures ( ASMs).
Supplemental Safety Measures include the following:
• Four- Quadrant Gate Systems
• Medians or Channelization Devices
• One- Way Streets with Gates
• Permanent Closure
Alternative Safety Measure include:
• Modified SSMs ( i. e. Non- Complying Medians, Three- Quadrant Gates, etc.)
• Engineered ASMs ( i. e. Geometric Improvements)
• Non- Engineered ASMs ( i. e. Programmed Enforcement, Photo Enforcement, Education, etc.)
Union Pacific encourages the use of Engineered SSMs, but asks that communities postpone taking any
costly or irreversible action until it has been determined which additional safety measures are warranted.
General Costs of Safety Measures
Public authorities are responsible for the cost of preliminary engineering, construction, maintenance and
replacement of active warning devices or their components, including wayside horn systems installed at
crossings to meet quiet zone standards.
Public authorities will execute a preliminary engineering agreement ( PDF File) with the railroad to
reimburse the railroad for all project development and engineering design costs. This agreement requires
a deposit:
• $ 5,000 per wayside horn location
• $ 10,000 per crossing signal location
Public authorities will guarantee reimbursement to the railroad for all actual costs associated with the
installation and maintenance of the railroad improvements required for the quiet zone by means of a
project agreement executed by the parties. This may include quiet zone warning devices, wayside horns
or both.
Examples of costs as estimated by Union Pacific:
• Four- Quadrant Gate Systems - $ 300,000 to $ 500,000
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• Basic Active Warning System* - $ 185,000 to $ 400,000
( Includes Flashing Lights and Gates, Constant Warning Time, Power Out Indicator and
Cabin.)
• Basic Inter- Connect - $ 5,000 to $ 15,000
• Annual Maintenance - $ 4,000 to $ 10,000
Contact Information
Notices of Intent, Notices of Establishment or other general communication related to quiet zones
should be sent to:
Union Pacific Railroad
Engineering Department
Re: Quiet Zone Establishment
1400 Douglas Street, STOP 0910
Omaha, NE 68179- 0910
Requests for diagnostic assistance should be directed to Union Pacific’s Industry and Public
Projects group.
BNSF Railway
For more than 150 years, BNSF Railway has been delivering cars, coal, clothing, games and nearly everything
else found in homes and businesses. When the predecessors to BNSF Railway first started operations, we were
building a nation by shrinking America’s borders. Today our focus is on using speed, agility and resourcefulness
to help expand the global marketplace for goods and services.
Overview of BNSF’s Approach to Grade Crossing Safety
BNSF is committed to highway- railroad grade crossing safety. It is an integral part of our operation and
culture and involves the cooperative daily effort of many employees. Since oncoming trains cannot stop
for vehicles whose drivers violate motor vehicle laws when approaching railroad tracks, each grade
crossing presents possible danger to motorists and train crews. Recognizing this potential hazard, BNSF
is committed to grade crossing safety on many fronts, including community education and awareness,
train crew education and field operations testing to monitor rules compliance, grade crossing closure,
crossing safety technology, crossing resurfacing, vegetation control, installation of warning devices, and
track and signal inspection and maintenance. BNSF has one of the lowest highway- railroad grade
crossing collision rates in the rail industry and, as an industry leader, will continue to work with the states
and the communities we serve to further improve grade crossing safety.
General Information
• There are over 239,500 highway- railroad grade crossings in the U. S., including just over 26,700 across
BNSF’s 32,000- mile network.
• BNSF’s highway- railroad grade crossings include approximately 17,630 public and 9,070 private and
pedestrian at- grade crossings. In addition, BNSF has about 3,400 public grade separations and 540
private and pedestrian grade separations.
• BNSF has one of the lowest highway- railroad grade crossing collision rates in the rail industry. Since
BNSF’s merger in 1995, the rate of grade crossing collisions has declined by 65 percent – from 5.41 per
million train miles in 1995 to a rate of 1.93 in 2006.
• From 1997 to 2006 more than 47 percent of the grade crossing collisions on BNSF occurred at crossings
with active warning devices ( automatic gates and/ or flashing light signals).
• BNSF spent more than $ 91 million in 2006 on programs related to grade crossing safety. BNSF
expenditures include funding the educational and program activities of 21 grade crossing safety
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managers and 10 public projects managers, as well as crossing signal maintenance and vegetation
control. That figure also includes the $ 20 million BNSF spent in 2006 to maintain grade crossing road
surfaces.
Federal/ Railroad Grade Crossing Safety Program
Federal and state processes for upgrading crossing signals: Each state determines the location and
types of rail- highway grade crossing signals to be installed, under a federal program. Crossing signals are
defined by the Federal Highway Administration as highway control devices, not railroad signals. Each
state receives an allocation of federal safety funds and develops a priority list of crossings each year for
grade crossing improvements. The formula used to generate this list varies from state to state and
typically includes elements such as train speed, train volume, average daily traffic and accident history.
Once a state determines which crossings are to be upgraded, it contacts the railroad to begin the
“ diagnostic” process. The railroad designs the circuitry for each crossing and estimates the cost. Once the
state reviews and approves the estimate, the state issues an agreement to the railroad to install the
specified signals. BNSF participated in more than 285 diagnostic projects in 2006.
Federal funds pay about 90 percent of the cost of a signal installation and the local government
jurisdiction — city, county, etc. — pays the other 10 percent. The railroad maintains the signals from that
time forward. These maintenance costs usually equal the cost of the initial installation in about 10 years.
The railroad cannot, on its own, install crossing signals. It is required to get state permission.
Interim FRA Locomotive Horn rule: On April 27, in response to a Congressional mandate, the Federal
Railroad Administration ( FRA) issued a Final Rule on the Use of Locomotive Horns at Highway- Rail
Grade Crossings. This final rule took effect June 24, 2005 at public highway- rail grade crossings. Under
the new rule, local governments may establish quiet zones or continue existing quiet zones, if they are
willing to take remedial steps to address risk, based on a calculation of potential risk at the crossing. In
many cases, the rule makes these designations subject to FRA review, approval and ongoing oversight.
These remedial steps can include crossing closure, grade separation, full- width crossing gates with an
approved median divider, full- width gates and lights at crossings on a one- way street, temporary closure
( for nighttime quiet zones only) or four quadrant gates. The rule also allows for an automated horn system
at the crossing as a substitute for the train horn, if this provision is approved by the Federal Highway
Administration. Certain Alternative Safety Measures ( ASMs) are also described. Community leaders who
have questions about the proposed rule or about BNSF’s role in implementing that rule should contact Mr.
Lyn Hartley, Director Public Projects, who can be reached at Lyn. Hartley@ bnsf. com.
Community Education/ Law Enforcement/ Awareness
Operation Lifesaver Program: In 2006, BNSF sponsored more than 4,600 Operation Lifesaver ( OL)
classes on highway- railroad grade crossing safety. BNSF’s program targets the highest risk populations –
new drivers, adult drivers and professional drivers. Approximately one quarter ( 1,100) of BNSF’s OL
courses were presented at drivers’ education classes. Nearly 925 courses were conducted with truck and
school bus drivers, over 900 were offered to adult drivers, and 140 were conducted with emergency
response personnel. The rest were held at elementary and junior high schools. Over 300 employee and
civilian volunteer presenters work on behalf of BNSF highway/ rail grade crossing safety. Many of the
volunteers were trained by BNSF field safety managers, who are certified by OL to teach using the OL
curriculum.
Officer on the Train: In 2006, BNSF conducted more than 90 Officer on the Train ( OOT) programs.
These programs give local law enforcement the opportunity to ride a BNSF train to learn about grade
crossing safety laws for motorists and pedestrians and get a sampling of compliance levels. Traffic
citations or warnings are often issued as part of OOT programs.
In addition, in 2006 BNSF participated in more than a dozen positive enforcement efforts. This program
places law enforcement officers near crossings to watch driver behavior. Motorists who obey grade
crossing laws are stopped and thanked for their safe driving and rewarded with a small
token of appreciation.
Roll Call: In BNSF’s “ Roll Call” program, over 600 follow- up visits were conducted with patrol officers at
law enforcement agencies to offer training or to reinforce prior training on the importance of enforcing
grade crossing safety and trespassing laws.
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Grade Crossing Collision Investigation: In 2006, BNSF participated in 120 Grade Crossing Collision
Investigation ( GCCI) courses, which are four- to sixteen- hour courses offered as standard training at law
enforcement academies. This program has been endorsed and certified by the National Sheriffs’
Association and the International Association of Police Chiefs through OL and is now the standard for
training nationwide. In addition, BNSF has developed an on- line, computer based, interactive version of
GCCI to provide officers convenient access to this program.
Industrial truck driver education program: In 2006, BNSF offered truck driver education programs to
over 180 trucking companies located along BNSF track. Primary targets included trucking companies that
are BNSF customers, as well as trucking companies that haul commodities such as aggregate and
gasoline over BNSF tracks.
Train crew education and operations testing: BNSF train crew employees receive extensive hands- on,
performance- based training that covers safety and operating rules, air brake and train handling rules, and
practice on stationary and full- motion locomotive simulators. This training, provided to newly hired
employees as well as current employees as part of BNSF’s recertification program, includes skills
essential to grade crossing safety, such as a review of train whistle procedures and proper train speeds.
This training is reinforced by frequent operations testing, as BNSF supervisors regularly monitor train
operations to ensure all safety and operating rules are consistently followed.
Grade Crossing Consolidation Programs
Grade crossing consolidation: One of the best ways to address grade crossing safety is to reduce the
number of at- grade crossings. BNSF’s grade crossing safety program includes an aggressive initiative to
close public and private grade crossings, working closely with communities and property owners. Good
candidates for closure include those that are redundant ( other crossings nearby allow access to the same
roads or areas), are not designated emergency routes, have low traffic volumes, or are private crossings
that are no longer needed or used. Since 2000, BNSF has closed more than 3,500 at- grade crossings
and has a goal of closing 450 more in 2007.
Private crossing permits review: In 2006, about 15 percent of BNSF’s grade crossing collisions
occurred at private crossings. In response, BNSF is working to reduce the number of private grade
crossings, especially those that are rarely used or redundant, and closely scrutinizes all requests for new
private crossings. During 2006, there were about 100 requests for new private crossing permits. Only 20
new crossings were installed – and 12 of
those were temporary for construction purposes.
Track and Signal Inspection and Maintenance
Track inspection programs: Key corridors on BNSF are inspected four times a week by BNSF track
inspectors, and many heavily- traveled routes are inspected daily. These inspections include a review of
condition of track and right- of- way as well as whistle posts, crossbucks, and active warning devices. In
addition, BNSF train crews are instructed to report any signal and crossing warning malfunctions
immediately to BNSF’s Network Operations Center ( NOC) in Fort Worth. This program includes “ power-on”
lights at active warning devices that indicate a working power supply to the lights and gates.
Grade crossing warning inspection and maintenance: BNSF is responsible for maintenance of active
warning devices and spent about $ 46 million in 2006 on grade crossing signal maintenance and repair.
Each of the active warning devices is thoroughly inspected monthly by BNSF signal employees. This
inspection includes a review of functionality of gates and lights and of battery back- up power sources.
Vegetation Control
Vegetation treatment and brush control: As much as practical, BNSF’s goal is to reduce vegetation
and other obstructions on its right- of- way that would materially interfere with motorists’ ability to see
approaching train traffic. In 2006, BNSF treated 33,300 acres along its right- of- way with herbicides to
prevent growth of new vegetation at railroad crossings.
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Crossing Safety Technology and Management Processes
Crossing surveillance systems: BNSF cooperated with various cities across the system to test
surveillance systems that digitally record drivers who violate highway- rail grade crossing laws. Drivers
receive correspondence advising them that they were observed behaving unsafely.
1- 800 number signs: BNSF has posted an emergency contact number at all public grade crossings for
the public’s use in contacting BNSF’s 24- hour Resource Operations Center with concerns regarding
crossings or related questions ( 800- 832- 5452). These signs allow motorists who become stalled or in any
way obstruct railroad tracks to call a number and simply provide the information on the sign. This
information includes the Department of Transportation ( DOT) identification number that pinpoints their
location for BNSF’s dispatching center and allows us to warn or stop trains in the affected area.
Other technologies: BNSF continues to investigate new technologies that enter the marketplace related
to highway- rail grade crossing safety. Examples are four quadrant gates, extended cantilever arms,
median barriers, in- pavement LED lights, barrier gates, stationary horns and instantaneous reporting of
active warning device failures via cellular technology.
Operations Monitoring Programs
Reports of unsafe motorists/ trespassers: As part of BNSF’s unsafe motorist and trespasser program,
train crews and other field employees submitted more than 1,300 reports in 2006 of trespassers or drivers
who violated grade crossing safety laws. The information is provided to state highway department
personnel for consideration in preparing their grade crossing priority index to determine the possible need
for traffic control devices, as part of the Federal Highway- Rail Grade Crossing and Trespasser Prevention
Program. BNSF also uses this data to identify problem areas, respond with educational training and seek
assistance from local law enforcement authorities.
BNSF Crossing Closure Procedures
BNSF is the recognized leader in the rail industry when it comes to closing crossings. Since 2000, the railroad has
closed over 3,500 public and private at- grade highway rail crossings. How does BNSF average several hundred
closures a year? Very simply, with commitment and teamwork.
When the closure program was started, typical annual closures were less than a third of what they are now.
Public crossing closures were handled by BNSF’s Public Projects team in Engineering, while private crossing
closures were handled by the Field Safety team, a part of Operations. The new process would require the two
teams to work together and coordinate their efforts. Both teams brought different skills to the new program and an
eagerness to learn and work together.
Public Projects is responsible for public highway- rail crossings on the BNSF system. This includes the
construction of new crossings and upgrading of warning devices— as directed by local or state authorities. It also
includes construction of grade separations, closure and removal of grade crossings, upgrading of crossing
surfaces and shepherding local authorities through the process of establishing quiet zones. There are ten Public
Projects managers, two assistant directors and one director
The Field Safety team is responsible for private highway rail crossings on the BNSF system. This includes the
construction of new crossings or upgrading warning devices under contract with the private crossing owner( s). It
also includes closure and removal of private grade crossings. Field Safety is also responsible for grade crossing
safety education, working with Operation Lifesaver ® to deliver a strong safety message to educators, commercial
drivers, law enforcement and the general public.
Coordinating the work of these two groups to focus on crossing closure has made for a strong, dedicated team.
When the program began, the team decided to focus on crossings that were redundant or unused. Candidates for
closure were submitted by division maintenance and operating personnel— who knew from experience whether a
crossing was needed or not.
Once a crossing has been identified as a closure candidate, the path to closure depends on whether it’s a private
or public crossing. For a private crossing, Field Safety requests owner research. BNSF retains Bartlett & West to
create research packages for each private crossing. This consists of copies of deeds, permits, maps and
aerials— anything that determines who actually owns the crossings and what rights, if any, exist to the crossing.
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The research is pulled from a variety of sources, including BNSF’s own files and public records from the county
courthouse or other record office. The right to a crossing can come from a variety of sources, such as a deed from
the government in exchange for the railroad’s right of way, by state statute, or by permit or contract. Some rights
may continue through the years; others may have ceased to exist with a change of owners and/ or circumstances.
In each case, the Field Safety manager works closely with BNSF’s Law department to verify the situation.
In most cases, a field visit to the crossings and a visit with the user are scheduled. The field visit may actually
come before any research is done, as part of a corridor study or other such work in the field. In the meeting with
the user and/ or owner, the main subject is safety— safety for the user( s) and safety for the owner. Alternate
access is discussed, ways the user can access their property, often via an adjacent road or public crossings.
Once an agreement is executed with the landowner, the crossing is temporarily barricaded to prevent
unauthorized use. It remains blocked until permanently removed by BNSF’s maintenance team. This usually
takes less than 30 days, and is often done in just a week or two. A crossing is considered removed once the
surface, approaches and warning devices are removed, and the ditchline on either side is restored to pre- crossing
appearance. It usually takes a five to six man maintenance team about two hours to fully remove the crossing and
restore the area.
For a public crossing, the procedure is a bit different. Public crossings exist by either local or state government
authority, determining which crossings are put in or removed. Each state monitors public road crossings, tracking
vehicular and train movements and determining the type of warning devices. The state or local authority decides
when a crossing is no longer required, typically after a public hearing, depending on the state. In some cases, it
will occur after review by an administrative law judge. Once the railroad is authorized to remove the crossing,
work is begun in coordination with the state or local authorities. Again, a crossing is considered removed once the
surface, approaches ( to the right of way line, local authorities are responsible beyond that point) and warning
devices are removed. In some cases, permanent barricades may be required to prevent trespassing on railroad
property. Many public closures are part of larger transportation- related projects, such as grade separations or
other road improvements.
In a given year, private closures make up 70 percent of the total closures. This is due to longer time required to
close public crossings and the complexity of the negotiations with several parties. This can take sometimes up to
two years. Private crossings take much less time, as most of them require a simple agreement from the owner to
close. To help with the not- so- simple ones, the Crossing Closure team holds a conference call twice monthly to
discuss the crossings that are being worked. Each team comments on their crossings and often asks for help in
areas of difficulty. Training is done at semi- annual staff meetings, along with field training provided by the core
team. As you can see, the closing of a crossing involves the effort of more than one individual. It’s the team spirit
fostered by the idea of a job well done and knowing that closing a crossing makes for a safer railroad
environment.
BNSF Public Private Partnerships
Public: What are public- private partnerships?
Public- private partnerships combine the business interests with the diverse goals of the local, state and federal
entities who are working in the interest of the public. Co- operation between the private and public sectors may, in
many cases, allow both sides to achieve their respective goals better, faster and at lower costs.
How does BNSF approach public- private partnerships?
Public- private partnerships must be voluntary on both sides. Decisions on behalf of the public interest and
investment. BNSF’s decision on whether to participate must protect our assets and the interests of our customers,
shareholders and employees.
Coordinated state and federal transportation planning is necessary to ensure prudent public investments are
made in the national rail network. BNSF works with local, state, and federal agencies to provide whatever relevant
information is needed to achieve public goals.
Private: What factors does BNSF consider when evaluating a potential public- private partnership?
Public- private partnerships require a fact based planning approach that that:
• Describes project scope;
• Assesses impact on current freight traffic levels and future traffic growth;
• Provides a cost- benefit analyses on an after- tax risk- adjusted basis; and
• Identifies public funding sources, timing, processes and probability of obtaining funding to meet the public’s
goals.
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BNSF’s preliminary interest in exploring the possibilities of a public- private partnership should not be
construed as a real or implies commitment by BNSF to support a project or participate either operationally or
financially. BNSF’s official support or concurrence of a project’s benefit will follow the fact- based planning
process outlined above, completion of a Memorandum of Understanding ( MOU) between the parties and
BNSF’s issuance of a formal statement of benefit and support.
Partnerships: What factors may lead BNSF to reject a potential public- private partnership?
Any public project cannot negatively affect BNSF’s freight customers or BNSF’s ability to provide them with
consistent service, now or in the future.
Will BNSF consider participating financially in a potential public- private partnership?
BNSF recognizes public funding for rail projects should be commensurate with public benefits. BNSF’s
contributions to public- private partnerships will be commensurate with benefits derived by BNSF in
comparison with other freight transportation projects competing for BNSF capital dollars.
Even though a project may produce some benefits for BNSF, it may not rank sufficiently high enough
compared to other capital investment or timeframe thresholds. When this occurs, BNSF would still support a
project but would not provide a financial participation.
1. Proactive community involvement in railroad development:
The highway- rail grade crossing is a unique location within our transportation system. Two distinctly
different transportation modes cross each other at highway- rail intersection 24 hours a day seven days a
week. Each day, an average of 328 million motor vehicles cross railroad tracks at highway- rail grade
crossings in the USA. As traffic density for both modes continues to steadily increase with population
and economic growth, the highway rail crossing will be a growing stress point in the transportation
system. Using growth- planning processes, communities have the ability to assess and prevent potential
risk of trespassing as a result of re- zoning planned construction of housing, shopping malls, schools,
restaurants, parks, new roadway- arterial construction, new highway construction, proposed public transit
or rail transit corridors or other points of interest that may be adjacent to existing railroad operations.
Public- private partnerships combine the business interests of companies with the diverse goals of the
local, state and federal entities who are working in the interest of the public. Co- operation between the
private and public sectors may, in many cases, allow both sides to achieve their respective goals better,
faster, and at lower costs. Communities may use this opportunity to implement a public- private
partnership to promote safety and awareness near railroad corridors.
2. Safety guidelines for highway- rail grade crossings:
The objective of the Railroad- Highway Grade Crossing Program is to reduce the number and severity of
highway accidents by eliminating hazards to vehicles and pedestrians at existing railroad crossings. The
program was authorized in Title 23, United States Code, and Section 130. Advocating and promoting the
increased communication between those highway agencies, railroad companies and authorities, and
government agencies involved with developing and implementing policies, rules and regulations. The
Arizona Corporation Commission and the Arizona Department of Transportation jointly maintain an
array- database of all of the State’s grade crossings. This annually- updated database assists engineers
in selecting traffic control devices or other measures at highway- rail grade crossings, which effectively
promote more informed decisions.
Several programs, most notable the Highway- Rail Grade Crossings and Hazard Elimination Programs
fall under the umbrella of the HSIP. These programs were established by the Highway Safety Act of
1973 to reduce the number and severity of highway- related crashes. The requirements for Highway- Rail
Grade Crossings and Hazard Elimination Programs are defined in Sections 130 and 152, respectively, of
Title 23, United States Code. Since the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991, these
highway safety programs are a part of the Surface Transportation Program ( STP) and 10 percent of STP
funds is set aside for carrying out Sections 130 and 152 of Title 23. The amount of funds reserved for
both highway- rail grade crossings and hazard elimination projects must be at least equal to the amount
that was apportioned to a State in Fiscal Year 1991. For nearly all States, the amount of funds currently
apportioned exceeds the amount apportioned in FY 1991. These additional funds which are referred to
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as optional safety funds, may be used for either highway- rail grade crossing or hazard elimination
projects.
Projects funded under Section 130 are intended to reduce the number and severity of train collisions
with vehicles and pedestrians at highway- rail grade crossings. Typical projects include active warning
devices ( e. g. lights and gates), signing and pavement markings illuminations, crossing surface
improvements, grade separations, sight distance improvements, geometric improvements to roadway
approaches, and the closing and/ or consolidation of crossings. All public crossing safety improvements
are eligible for funding.
The Arizona Corporation Commission ( ACC) and local government make joint recommendations. The
rail- grade crossing inspections are performed by a Diagnostic Team comprised of officials from ADOT,
ACC, Federal Highway Administration ( FHWA), the concerned railroad, and the agency having their
cost. ADOT, ACC and FHWA make a final selection of projects, based upon available funding. The
projects are included in the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program ( STIP) which goes to
FHWA for approval. U& RR monitors project development with the ACC, the railroad and the sponsoring
agency. http:// safety. fhwa. dot. gov/ state_ program/ hsip/ hsip_ final. htm
3. Grade crossing consolidation and closure:
The best way to address grade crossing safety is to reduce the number of at grade crossings. In the
event a grade crossing cannot be eliminated, a Grade Separation ( underpass or overpass) is the most
suitable alternative option. In 1991, the Federal Railroad Administration ( FRA) endorsed a goal of
closing 25 percent of all highway- rail grade crossings. Nationwide, the plan will concentrate on
presenting “ best practices” and successful initiatives in providing technical assistance and support to the
state and local government in the consolidation of at grade crossings. Efforts will center on fostering and
participating in the development of tools, incentives, guidance and regulations that will help local
agencies and railroad companies to facilitate the process and to communicate closure and consolidation
proposals forward; where possible or prudent. For any new rail alignment to be built, the design should
minimize new grade crossings; where possible or prudent.
§ 646.210 Classification of projects and railroad share of the cost.
( a) State laws requiring railroads to share in the cost of work for the elimination of hazards at
railroad- highway crossings shall not apply to Federal- aid projects.
( b) Pursuant to 23 U. S. C. 130( b), and 49 CFR 1.48:
( 1) Projects for grade crossing improvements are deemed to be of no ascertainable net
benefit to the railroads and there shall be no required railroad share of the costs.
( 2) Projects for the reconstruction of existing grade separations are deemed to generally be
of no ascertainable net
benefit to the railroad and there shall be no required railroad share of the costs, unless
the railroad has a specific contractual obligation with the State or its political subdivision
to share in the costs.
( 3) On projects for the elimination of existing grade crossings at which active warning devices
are in place or ordered to be installed by a State regulatory agency, the railroad share of
the project costs shall be 5 percent.
( 4) On projects for the elimination of existing grade crossings at which active warning devices
are not in place and have not been ordered installed by a State regulatory agency, or on
projects which do not eliminate an existing crossing, there shall be no required railroad
share of the project cost.
( c) The required railroad share of the cost under § 646.210( b) ( 3) shall be based on the costs for
preliminary engineering, right- of- way and construction within the limits described below:
( 1) Where a grade crossing is eliminated by grade separation, the structure and approaches
required to transition to a theoretical highway profile which would have been constructed
if there were no railroad present, for the number of lanes on the existing highway and in
accordance with the current design standards of the State highway agency.
( 2) Where another facility, such as a highway or waterway, requiring a bridge structure is
located within the limits of a grade separation project, the estimated cost of a theoretical
structure and approaches as described in § 646.210( c) ( 1) to eliminate the railroad-highway
grade crossing without considering the presence of the waterway or other
highway.
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( 3) Where a grade crossing is eliminated by railroad or highway relocation, the actual cost of
the relocation project, the estimated cost of the relocation project, or the estimated cost
of a structure and approaches as described in § 646.210( c)( 1), whichever is less.
( d) Railroads may voluntarily contribute a greater share of project costs than is required. Also, other
parties may voluntarily assume the railroad= s share.
4. Guidance for Safety At Private Crossings:
Definition Private Grade Crossing: An at- grade crossing where the highway is privately owned and is
intended for use by owner or by the owner’s licensees and invitees. It is not intended for public use and
is not maintained by public highway authority.
Private Crossing Identification:
1. A Farm Crossing – any crossing used for the movement of motor vehicles, farm machinery or
livestock in connection with agricultural pursuits, forestry, or other land- productive purposes.
2. A Residential Crossing – any crossing used to provide vehicular access for occupants and their
invitees to a private residence or residences.
3. A Recreational Crossing – any crossing used to provide access to otherwise isolated recreational
facilities, such as parks or hunting and fishing areas.
4. An Industrial Crossing – any crossing used to provide access between industrial plant facilities or to
an industrial or other commercial area.
In 2006, there were approximately 92,798 private highway- rail crossings in the United States. Private
crossings are categorized as either farm, residential, recreational or industrial. However, provisions for
signage, surface and other safety attributes of private crossings are largely unaddressed at many
locations. Establishing criteria for traffic control devices at private crossings will benefit from guidance
set fourth in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices ( MUTCD) and Technical Working Group
( TWG) documents.
Develop a program of safety and cooperation that will aid the railroads and state:
1. Help set standards for private grade crossing sign- design.
2. Determine upgrades needed at private crossings.
3. Develop guidelines to limit the opening of new private crossings and closing existing crossings
wherever prudent.
4. Ensure that railroad coordinates with each private grade crossing owner/ user.
In July 2006, the FRA announced its intent to conduct a series of open meetings throughout the United
States, in cooperation with appropriate State agencies, to consider issues related to the safety of private
highway- rail grade crossings. The FRA intends to solicit oral statements from private crossing owners,
railroads, and other interested parties on issues related to the safety of private highway- rail grade
crossings, which will include, but not be limited to: current practices concerning responsibility for safety
at private grade crossings,, the adequacy of warning devices at private crossings and the relative merits
or a more uniform approach to improving safety at private crossings. As an outcome of this public
information the FRA will review policies, rules and regulations.
5. Driver education:
Partnerships with ADOT- Motor Vehicle Division and Arizona Operation Lifesaver as well as public safety
groups, schools, public services organizations will assist in carrying this message. Work in partnership to
increase public awareness about the danger at places where the roadway crosses the train tracks and
on trespassing on railroad right- of- way. The program seeks to improve driver behavior at highway rail
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intersections by encouraging compliance with traffic laws relating to crossing signs and signals. Joint
efforts to expand educational programs for professional drivers, driver education courses and the
general public would be beneficial in this area. ADOT- Public Transportation Division and METRO light
rail are writing the updated Light Rail section of the State Motor Vehicle Guidebook. Expand to include
bus, all vehicles, light rail, school buses, and haz- mat. Add links and laws ( Arizona Revised Statutes)
Operation Lifesaver offers training modules for key groups of drivers: Student Drivers, Professional
Drivers and School Bus Operators. Each module includes a safety video, a student handbook, instructor
guide and quiz. The Student Drivers training module is available below. At the end of the quiz, you will
have the opportunity to submit the results to your driver instructor, employer, or insurer for credit. Also
below you will find excerpts from the School Bus Driver Training video for viewing, along with School
Bus Driver training materials in a downloadable format.
6. Trespass Prevention:
Trespassing has continued to be a difficult activity to target, despite increased public involvement
programs. The cause of trespassing on railway lines varies in each community. Effective long- term
solutions to trespassing problems can be realized by identifying the underlying cause of trespassing at
a specific location and developing and implementing an effective tailor made response. Through
Arizona Operation Lifesaver and the State and local agencies, assistance will be provided to
communities in identifying and addressing the underlying causes of trespassing problems and
developing an appropriate intervention for that community.
7. Law enforcement:
The law enforcement community plays an important role in modifying motor vehicle operators and
pedestrian behavior at highway- rail grade intersections and along railway rights of ways. Various efforts
will be undertaken to educate police officers concerning highway- rail and trespassing safety issues and
to recruit law enforcement support as we work to eliminate rail related injuries and fatalities.
Operation Lifesaver works closely with the law enforcement community throughout the United States – a
partnership that has improved public safety.
When a collision occurs at a highway- rail intersection, law enforcement officers respond. Being familiar
with railroad operations and the conditions at highway- rail grade crossings is important for law
enforcement officers.
If railroad tracks run through your community, you or your officers could become involved in a
specialized highway- rail grade crossing collision investigation. Grade Crossing Collision Investigation
( GCCI) Courses at the Basic ( 4- hour), Intermediate ( 8- hour) and Advanced ( 16- hour) levels are available
to help officers more effectively investigate such incidents.
This training was developed for the North American law enforcement community with the cooperation of
the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the National Sheriffs Association and Operation
Lifesaver, Inc.
Lastly, the TSA also recommends that the State of Arizona may utilize the Arizona Criminal Information
Center ( ACIC) in order to coordinate rail safety, security and law enforcement measures.
The following programs are designed to support this objective:
Public Education through Arizona Operation Lifesaver
Arizona Operation Lifesaver - Public Service Announcements
Grade Crossing Collision Investigation training
Officer on the Train enforcement initiatives
Positive enforcement exercises
Utilize the Arizona Criminal Information Center ( ACIC) database
First responders training ( DHS / TSA Coordination)
Outreach to Legislature
Outreach to Judiciary
Roll Call training
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8. Emergency Response and Emergency Vehicle Safety Tips:
You're a dedicated emergency responder. Caught up in responding to an emergency call, it can be easy
to forget that trains cannot yield to your fire engine or ambulance at a highway- rail grade crossing.
Why? Trains can't stop quickly, and they can't swerve to avoid hitting an object or vehicle on the tracks.
The laws of physics mean that it can take a fully- loaded freight train traveling 55 miles an hour a mile or
more to stop once emergency brakes are applied.
Studies have shown that it's difficult for drivers of emergency response vehicles to hear a train's warning
horn, further complicating the situation for emergency responders.
Operation Lifesaver has developed tools that emergency responders can use to minimize driving
hazards at highway- rail intersections:
• Operation Lifesaver's video, " Emergency Response: Your Safety First," is available for
educating emergency responders about safety around train tracks.
• Operation Lifesaver also provides Safety Tips for Emergency Responders.
In addition, a new training course, " Rail Safety for Emergency Responders," ( RSER) is available
nationwide, beginning in July 2006, for training emergency response personnel, including fire, EMS,
emergency management agencies, military and homeland security personnel. The RSER course is
designed to provide emergency responders critical information to prepare them for responding to a
railroad incident, including: safe response; knowledge of railroad electrical, fuel, and air systems;
hazardous materials; identifying rolling stock; pinch points; stopping a train; high/ low pressure tank cars;
and other on- scene dangers.
Tips for Emergency Responders
Operating an emergency response vehicle adds an element of urgency to making decisions at highway-rail
grade crossings. These places where the roadway crosses the railroad tracks are a special kind of
intersection, a highway- rail intersection. Operation Lifesaver and the National Volunteer Fire Council
remind emergency vehicle operators to...
Be Proactive for Your Safety and the Safety of Your Partners
• Plan routes that allow the driver or other crew member’s clear sight down the railroad tracks in
both directions.
• Have emergency phone numbers for railroads at dispatch centers. Know which railroad
controls the tracks, especially if more than one railroad operates in your community.
• If a train is blocking a crossing when you must get through, contact your emergency dispatcher
or the local railroad office.
• Do not place emergency vehicles on tracks and expect the train to be able to stop quickly
enough to avoid a collision.
• To stop a train contact the railroad. Give exact locations, using all available reference points:
check signal housing for DOT crossing number, e. g., 123456E. If known, use railroad mile
posts, name of road, crossroads, and town.
• If necessary to fight long- term brush or structure fires, contact the railroad to obtain clearance
to move ballast and feed the hose under the tracks. This will allow safe fire fighting and safe
train passage.
A 1986 study conducted by the National Transportation Safety Board concluded that a train's warning
horn is effective for large commercial and emergency vehicles only if the driver stops the vehicle, idles
the engine, turns off all radios, fans, wipers and other noise sources in the cab, and lowers the window.
Safe routing and access of Emergency vehicles needs to be ensured. Grade separations assist this
need.
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9. Agricultural Farm Worker Rail Safety Education and Outreach:
Thousands of agricultural workers are commuting daily on rural country roads and operating agricultural
machinery in the process of harvesting the multitude of crops throughout the United States. They are
unaware of the fact that they are four times more likely to die in a crash going to and from work than on
the job. Many of these fatalities are caused by train collisions.
Approximately 62% of private highway- rail crossings nationwide are located on farms. Farm machinery
operators need to stay alert where field and farm access roads cross train tracks. These farm rail
crossings are largely unmarked ( no warning lights, bells, gates or signs), and require extra caution on
the part of farm machinery operators. Too often farm workers use the tracks as a short cut to their
destination. Since 1994, more than 5,000 people have been killed while trespassing on railroads and
nearby property. You cannot always hear an approaching train in time to save your life.
In light of recent tragic incidents involving workers and farm equipment, the Federal Railroad
Administration ( FRA) is strengthening their efforts to increase railroad safety awareness within the
Agricultural Community. As a result, an FRA Community Outreach Coalition ( COC) worked together to
develop an informational DVD available in both English and Spanish to educate farm workers about
signs posted at a crossing, how to safely cross the tracks so that farming equipment does not get caught
on the crossing, and the dangers of walking on tracks to get to work or between fields.
This DVD will also provide an additional safety training tool for agricultural employers. The DVD is being
distributed nationally and is currently available on the FRA website.
Stopping Safely at Farm- Rail Crossings:
• Stop no closer than 15 feet from the nearest rail. Allow extra distance for
front mounted buckets and chemical tanks on farm tractors.
• To better hear the train, open machinery cab window, turn off radios and
fans and remove headphones.
• Make sure that farm machinery is properly lined up with farm- rail crossing to
ensure safe passage over train tracks.
• While stopped, look carefully in each direction for approaching trains,
moving head and eyes to see around obstructions such as mirrors,
windshield pillars and passengers. Fog can create an additional hazard.
• Before resuming, make sure there is enough room on the other side of the
train track or tracks to fully clear without stopping.
• Don’t stop on the tracks to open or close gates.
• Make sure that any towed equipment does not become unhitched while
crossing
• Watch that loaded materials are not dislodged onto the tracks while crossing
the train tracks.
• Do not attempt a crossing with low- slung equipment that can become lodged
on “ humped” crossings.
22
Track Facts
• Railroad tracks, bridges, tunnels, yards and train equipment are private
property.
• Trespassing on railroad property is against the law, and violators are subject
to fines and arrest.
• Freight trains do not follow set schedules. A train can approach from ANY
direction at ANY time.
• Trains CAN’T STOP QUICKLY OR TURN to avoid you. You CAN” T always
hear a train coming and it CAN APPROACH WITHOUT your knowledge.
• Railroad bridges and tunnels are NOT designed for pedestrians. They
typically only accommodate the width of a train and DO NOT HAVE
sidewalks. Anyone caught on a bridge or in a tunnel when a train
approaches MAY NOT ESCAPE in time.
• DO NOT hunt, fish, or play on railroad bridges.
• NEVER walk or climb between or over rail cars or attempt to hop aboard on a
moving train.
• Cross tracks ONLY at designated any pedestrian or roadway crossings.
OBSERVE AND OBEY all warning signs and symbols.
• DO NOT operate all terrain vehicles ( ATVs) on or near railroad tracks.
10. Implementation of Quiet Zones:
Provide technical assistance and support to communities interested in establishing quiet zones. The
Final Train Horn Rule became effective on June 24, 2005, and is the result of a 1994 law mandating the
use of the locomotive horn at all public highway- rail grade crossings with certain exceptions. This rule
will pre- empt applicable state laws and related railroad operating rules requiring locomotive horns be
sounded. Communities will have the choice to consider silencing train horns at highway- rail grade
crossing based on meeting safety needs, under the new regulations. Throughout Arizona, many
communities are actively working with local railroads, agencies and the Federal Railroad Administration
to address the implementation of new Quiet Zones.
11. Common Myths and Common Questions related to Rail:
Operation Lifesaver General Rail Safety Information
Facts and safety tips:
• Freight trains do not travel on a predictable schedule; schedules for passenger trains change.
Always expect a train at every highway- rail intersection.
• Train tracks are private property, no matter which railroad owns them. Trains have the right of
way 100% of the time — over ambulances, fire engines, cars, the police and pedestrians.
• If there are rails on the railroad ties, assume that the track is in use, even if there are weeds
or the track looks " rusty."
• A typical locomotive weighs approximately 400,000 pounds or 200 tons. When 100 railcars
are added to the locomotive, the train can weigh
• approximately 6,000 tons. The weight ratio of an automobile to a train is proportional to a
soda can and an automobile.
23
• A train may extend three feet or more outside the steel rail, which makes the safety zone for
pedestrians well beyond the rails themselves.
• Trains cannot stop quickly. It is a simple law of physics: the huge weight and size of the train
and the speed of the train dictate how quickly it can stop under ideal conditions. A 100- car
freight train traveling at 55 miles per hour will need more than a mile to stop — that's
approximately 18 football fields — once the train is set into emergency braking.
• There are roughly 200,000 miles of railroad tracks in the United States.
• Trains can move in either direction at any time. Trains are sometimes pushed by locomotives
instead of being pulled. This is especially true in commuter and light rail passenger service.
• Modern trains are quieter than ever, with no telltale " clackety- clack." Also, an approaching
train will always be closer and moving faster than you think.
• Cross tracks ONLY at designated pedestrian or roadway crossings. Observe and obey all
warning signs and signals.
• Never walk down a train track; it's illegal and it's dangerous. By the time a locomotive
engineer can see a trespasser or a vehicle on the tracks, it is too late. The train cannot stop
quickly enough to avoid a collision.
• Remember: Rail and recreation do not mix!
12. Professional Drivers - Overview of Requirements
Professional truck drivers have special responsibilities around highway- rail grade crossings. Federal and
state regulations require professional drivers who operate certain vehicles to stop before crossing at-grade
railroad tracks.
Below you'll find an overview of which vehicles need to stop at highway- rail intersections and when
stopping is not required, as well as an update on penalties for professional drivers who violate crossing
regulations.
According to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations:
• § 392.10 Railroad grade crossings; stopping required.
( a) Except as provided in paragraph ( b) of this section, the driver of a commercial motor
vehicle specified in paragraphs ( 1) through ( 6) of this section shall not cross a railroad
track or tracks at grade unless he/ she first: Stops the commercial motor vehicle within 50
feet of, and not closer than 15 feet to, the tracks; thereafter listens and looks in each
direction along the tracks for an approaching train; and ascertains that no train is
approaching. When it is safe to do so, the driver may drive the commercial motor vehicle
across the tracks in a gear that permits the commercial motor vehicle to complete the
crossing without a change of gears. The driver must not shift gears while crossing the
tracks.
Drivers of these vehicles must stop at every highway- rail intersection:
• Transporting chlorine, whether or not placarding is required.
• Driving any vehicle placarded for hazardous material.
• Driving a cargo tank used for hazardous materials, whether loaded or empty.
• Transporting, in a cargo tank, a Class 3 elevated temperature material.
• Transporting a hazardous material covered by a DOT exemption ( shipping papers or packaging
materials marked " DOT- E" followed by exemption number).
Stopping is not required:
• In some states, when the crossing is controlled by a standard traffic signal showing green when
tracks are clear.
• At crossings marked with signs showing EXEMPT, ABANDONED, or TRACKS OUT OF
SERVICE.
• At a streetcar or spur track in a business district, in some states.
• Where traffic is controlled by a flagman or police officer. ( Sec. 12, 80 Stat. 931; 49 U. S. C. 1651
note; 49 U. S. C. 304, 1655; 49 CFR 1.48( b) and 301.60)
24
Changes to Commercial Driver's License ( CDL) - New Penalties for Crossing Violations:
New Commercial Drivers License changes ( 49 CFR Parts 350, 353, 354 & 390; specifically in 383.51)
became effective September 30, 2002. Failure to observe these new laws when interacting with a
railroad crossing could cost you your license!
Violations may occur at the Federal, State or Local level when:
• Although the driver is not required to stop, he fails to slow down and check that the tracks are
clear of an approaching train.
• Although the driver is not required to stop, he fails to stop before reaching the crossing, if the
tracks are not clear.
• The driver is hauling materials that require a stop ( flammable, etc.), but fails to stop at the
crossing.
• The driver fails to allow sufficient space on the opposite side of the crossing and is forced to stop
with part of the truck still on the crossing.
• The driver fails to obey a traffic control device or the directions of an enforcement official at the
crossing.
• The driver is required to properly judge the amount of clearance needed by their undercarriage
( for example at a hump crossing). ( A driver who fails to negotiate a crossing and gets stuck can
face these penalties.)
Penalties
• On first conviction, a CDL holder will be disqualified from operating a commercial motor vehicle
( CMV) for no Less than 60 Days. Large truck drivers must have this license to operate.
• Second conviction for any combination of offenses in 3 years, a CDL holder must be disqualified
from operating a CMV for no less than a year.
These penalties are severe and are a result of several tragic crossing collisions between trains
and trucks or school buses.
13. Contacts and Resources:
( Rail Agency, Safety- Security, Railroad and Rail Transit)
The State of Arizona ~ Public Rail Safety & Security Action Plan was developed by and in cooperation
with the following agencies and companies.
Arizona Corporation Commission ( ACC) - www. cc. state. az. us/ safety/ index- rr. htm
Arizona Department of Transportation ( ADOT) - www. azdot. gov/ index. asp
Arizona Operation Lifesaver ( AZOL) - www. azol. org
BNSF Railway ( BNSF) - www. bnsf. com
Department of Homeland Security ( DHS) - www. dhs. gov/ dhspublic
Federal Railroad Administration ( FRA- USDOT) - www. fra. dot. gov
Federal Highway Administration ( FHWA- USDOT) - www. fhwa. dot. gov
Federal Motors Carrier Safety Administration ( FMCSA) - www. fmcsa. dot. gov
Governor’s Office of Highway Safety ( GOHS) - www. azgohs. gov
METRO ( Light Rail) - www. valleymetro. org/ rail/ index. html
Transportation Safety Administration ( TSA- DHS) - www. tsa. gov/ index. shtm
Union Pacific Railroad ( UPRR) - www. up. com
Rail Agency Contacts:
Arizona Corporation Commission
Railroad Safety Section
1200 W. Washington Street
Phoenix, Arizona 85007
phone: Phoenix - 602 262- 5601
phone: Tucson - 520 628- 6550
24- Hour Emergency Contact - 602 542- 7772
email - railroad@ azcc. gov
web site - www. azcc. gov/ divisions/ safety/ railroad/ index. htm
25
Federal Railroad Administration ( Region 7)
Federal Railroad Administration
1120 Vermont Avenue, NW, Stop 35
Washington, DC 20005
phone: 202 493- 6000
Region 7 phone: 1- 800 724- 5997
web site - www. fra. dot. gov/ us/ home
Arizona Department of Transportation
Utilities & Railroad Engineering Section ( ITD)
205 S. 17th Avenue Mail Drop 618E
Phoenix, AZ 85007
phone: 602 712- 8692
web site - www. azdot. gov/ highways/ utilities/ index. asp
Arizona Department of Transportation
Public Transportation Division ( PTD)
206 S. 17th Avenue Mail Drop 340B
Phoenix, AZ 85007
phone: 602 712- 8303
web site - www. azdot. gov/ PTD/
Rail Safety- Security Contacts:
POLICE EMERGENCY – Dial 911
BNSF RAILWAY - RAILROAD POLICE – 1- 800- 832- 5452
UNION PACIFIC RAILROAD - RAILROAD POLICE – 1- 888- 877- 7267
Arizona Department of Homeland Security
1700 W Washington
Phoenix, AZ 85007
ACTIC hotline phone: 877 2- SAVE- AZ ( 877- 272- 8329)
phone: 602 223- 2680 ( ACTIC)
phone: 602 542- 7030
web site – www. azdohs. gov/
Arizona Department of Public Safety ( DPS)
Arizona Counter Terrorism Information Center ( ACTIC)
P. O. Box 6638
Phoenix, AZ. 85005
ACTIC hotline phone: 877 2- SAVE- AZ ( 877- 272- 8329)
phone: 602 223- 2680 ( ACTIC)
phone: 602 223- 2000 ( main DPS switchboard)
web site - www. dps. state. az. us/ default. asp
Arizona Operation Lifesaver ( AZOL)
3660 W. Suffield Lane
Tucson, AZ. 85741
phone: 520 403- 8745 / 520 444- 9443
web site - www. azol. org/
26
Railroad Contacts:
Class- 1 Railroads
BNSF Railway
P. O. Box 961056
Fort Worth, TX 76161- 0056
phone: 1- 800- 795- 2673
24- Hour Emergency Contact – 1- 800- 832- 5452 ( BNSF Railway Police)
For emergencies dial - 1
For Crossing Gate malfunctions / Grade Crossing issues dial - 2
web site – www. bnsf. com
Union Pacific Railroad
Company Mailing Address and Phone
Union Pacific Railroad
1400 Douglas Street
Omaha, NE 68179
UP Main Number: 402- 544- 5000
UP Operator: 888- 870- 8777
Reporting Unusual or Suspicious Occurrences and Environmental Hazards
Please call 1- 888- UPRRCOP ( 877- 7267) to report hazardous materials releases, personal injuries,
criminal activities, illegal dumping, or other environmental incidents.
Reporting Rough or Damaged Grade Crossings
To report rough crossings, or crossings blocked or obscured by vegetation ( non- emergency situations
only) within the state of California, please call ( 916) 789- 6114.
To report emergency grade crossing blockages or damage, please call 1- 800- 848- 8715.
web site – www. up. com
Short Line Railroads:
The Apache Railway
PO Box 857
Snowflake, AZ 85937- 0136
phone: 928 536- 9582
web site – www. abitibiconsolidated. com/ aciwebsitev3. nsf/ site/ en/ papers/ newsprint/ snowflake. html
Arizona & California Railroad
1301 California Avenue
P. O. Box 3340
Parker, AZ 85344 USA
phone: 928 669- 6662
web site – www. railamerica. com/ railmaps/ ARZC. htm
Arizona Central Railroad
300 North Broadway
Clarkdale, Arizona 86324
Phone: 928 639- 0010
web site – www. thewesterngroup. net/ rrArizonaCentral. html
Arizona Eastern Railway Arizona Eastern Railway
Operating Office Permian Basin Railways Business Office
P. O. Box 2200 118 South Clinton St., Suite 300
Claypool, AZ 85532 Chicago, IL 60661
phone: 928 473- 2447 phone: 312 466- 0900
web site – www. arizonaeasternrailway. com web site – www. permianbasinrailways. com
27
Black Mesa & Lake Powell Railroad
SRP - Navajo Generating Station
Mail Station NGS010 - PO Box 850
Page, AZ. 86040- 0850
phone: 928 645- 6210
web site – www. srpnet. com/ about/ stations/ navajo. aspx
Copper Basin Railway
PO Drawer I
Hayden, AZ. 85235
phone: 520 356- 7730
web site – www. asarco. com
Magma Arizona Railroad
BHP- Billiton
PO Box M
San Manuel, AZ. 85631
phone: 520 385- 3456
web site – www. bhpbilliton. com/ bb/ home. jsp
San Pedro & Southwestern Railroad
796 East Country Club Drive
PO Box 1420
Benson, AZ. 85602
phone: 520 586- 2266
San Manuel Arizona Railroad
BHP- Billiton
PO Box M
San Manuel, AZ. 85631
phone: 520 385- 3456
web site – www. bhpbilliton. com/ bb/ home. jsp
Tucson, Cornelia & Gila Bend Railroad Tucson, Cornelia & Gila Bend RR
Freeport- McMoRan Phelps Dodge Ajo, Inc.
One North Central Avenue South Highway 85
Phoenix, AZ. 85004 Ajo, AZ. 85321
phone: 602 366- 8100 phone: 520 387- 3219
web site – www. fcx. com
Terminal / Industrial / Switching Railroads:
APS Cholla Power Plant
Arizona Public Service - Coal Handling
PO Box 188, Mail Station 4467
Joseph City, AZ. 86032
phone: 520 288- 1337
web site – www. aps. com/ general_ info/ AboutAPS_ 18. html
ASARCO Hayden Smelter
ASARCO Hayden
PO Box 8
Hayden, AZ. 85235
phone: 520 356- 7811
web site – www. asarco. com
Camp Navajo
PO Box 16123
Bellemont, AZ. 86015
phone: 928 773- 3200
web site – www. camp- navajo. org/ industrial. php
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McElhaney Cattle Company
34673 East County 9th Street, Suite A
Wellton, AZ. 85356
phone: 928 785- 3384
Phelps Dodge Morenci Industrial Phoenix Corporate Headquarters
4521 Highway 191 PD / Freeport- McMoRan
Morenci, AZ 85540 One North Central Avenue
phone: 928 865- 6481 Phoenix, AZ. 85004
web site – www. fcx. com phone: 602 366- 8100
Phelps Dodge Sierrita Mine Phoenix Corporate Headquarters
6200 West Duval Mine Rd / PO Box 527 PD / Freeport- McMoRan
Green Valley, AZ 85622- 0527 One North Central Avenue
phone: 520 648- 8500 Phoenix, AZ. 85004
web site – www. fcx. com phone: 602 366- 8100
Port of Tucson
6964 East Century Park Drive
Tucson, AZ. 85706
phone: 520 574- 1320
web site – www. portoftucson. net
Passenger / Tourist Railroads / Rail Tours
Amtrak
Government Affairs
60 Massachusetts Ave, NE
Fourth Floor
Washington, DC. 20002
Phone: 202 906- 3918
Passenger Information Phone: 800- USA- RAIL ( 800 872- 7245)
web site – www. amtrak. com
Grand Canyon Railway Grand Canyon Railway
Passenger Depot Corporate Headquarters
233 North Grand Canyon Boulevard 1201 West Route 66, Suite 200
Williams, AZ 86046 Flagstaff, AZ 86001
phone: 800- THE- TRAIN ( 800 843- 8724) phone: 928 773- 1976
web site – www. thetrain. com
Verde Canyon Railroad
300 North Broadway
Clarkdale, Arizona 86324
Phone: 800 320- 0718
web site – www. verdecanyonrr. com
Yuma Valley Railway
Yuma Valley Chapter - National Railway Historical Society
P. O. Box 10305
Yuma AZ 85366- 8305
• Yuma Valley Railway no longer has an active phone or website.
• US Bureau of Reclamation owns the Yuma Valley Railway track and real estate.
• US Bureau of Reclamation Lower Colorado Region: Phone: 702 293- 8705
GrandLuxe Rail Journeys
Attn: Customer Service
35715 US Hwy 40, Suite D302
Evergreen, CO 80439
phone: 800 320- 4206
web site – www. americanorientexpress. com/ Index. html
29
Sierra Madre Express
P. O. Box 26381
Tucson, AZ 85726- 6381
phone: 800 666- 0346
web site – www. sierramadreexpress. com
Rail Transit Contacts:
Amtrak
Government Affairs
60 Massachusetts Ave, NE
Fourth Floor
Washington, DC. 20002
Phone: 202 906- 3918
Passenger Information Phone: 800- USA- RAIL ( 800 872- 7245)
web site – www. amtrak. com
METRO light rail ( metropolitan Phoenix)
101 North First Avenue, Suite 1300
Phoenix, AZ 85003
phone - 602 254- RAIL
email - rail@ valleymetro. org.
web site - www. valleymetro. org/ METRO_ light_ rail
Regional Transportation Authority ( RTA - metropolitan Tucson)
177 N. Church Ave., Suite 405
Tucson, AZ 85701
phone: 520 770- 9410
web site - www. rtamobility. com/ ( Tucson Modern Streetcar)
Old Pueblo Trolley ( Tucson)
P. O. Box 1373
Tucson, AZ 85702
phone: 520 792- 1802
web site - www. oldpueblotrolley. org/ index. htm
30
Appendix I
AZ Statutes pertaining to Railroads
( 4- 24- 05 Notes/ Comments)
Criminal Trespass and Burglary
13- 1502.. A. 2 Criminal trespass in the third degree; ( Trespassing on Railway property.)
Criminal Damage to Property
13- 1602. A. 3 Criminal damage; ( Tampering/ Defacing property of a utility.) ( Ref. 28- 7743)
13- 3720. Dropping objects from overpass. ( Includes Railroad bridges)
28- 622. Failure to comply with police officer. ( Lawful orders)
28- 623. B. 2 Obedience by public officers and employees; ( Exceptions for Railroad workers.)
Traffic Signs, Signals, and Markings
28- 644. Obedience to and required traffic control devices. (“ No Trespassing” signs are not required.)
28- 649. Interference with traffic control device or railroad sign or signal; ( Ref. MUTCD- traffic control
device)
28- 726. Limitations on driving to left of roadway center. ( Overtaking within100 ft. of Railroad crossing.)
Special Stops Required
28- 851. Approach of train; signal. ( Stop > 15ft. to crossing; Horn is blowing; Gate being
raised/ lowered.)
28- 852. Dangerous railroad grade crossing. ( Stop between 15 and 50 feet)
28- 853. Railroad grade crossing; stop required of certain vehicles. ( School buses; HazMat)
28- 854. Railroad grade crossing; moving heavy equipment. ( Low Profile/ Heavy vehicles)
28- 855. Stop signs; yield signs. ( Yield right- of- way at Crossbucks 1934 US Supreme Court ruling)
28- 873. Stopping, standing or parking prohibitions. ( 50ft. of nearest rail; or 8 ½ ft of center of track)
28- 3312. Mandatory disqualification of commercial driver license. ( Railroad related citations)
28- 6705. Public road and street maintenance. ( Road maintenance)
28- 6706. Primitive roads. ( Repairs)
28- 6708. Jurisdiction of streets; unincorporated town. ( Defining Public Highways)
28- 6711. Railroad construction along improved highway prohibited; exception. ( Crossings)
28- 7743. Utility crossings; definition. ( Railroads as Public Utilities)
40- 323. Commission rules and regulations. Railroad services)
40- 324. Power of commission to order changes in service to insure adequate service by railroad.
31
40- 325. Power of commission to order physical connection between railroad companies.
40- 326. Duty of railroad company to make connection with track of private shipper; conditions.
40- 327. Order by commission for connection or spur; right to connect to private track.
40- 336. Power of commission to require safety devices.
40- 337. Power of commission over railway crossings.
40- 337.01. Installation of automatic warning devices; agreements for sharing cost; apportionment of cost.
40- 337.02. Allocation of funds for automatic warning signals at railway crossings.
40- 337.03. Determination of location of automatic warning signals.
40- 338. Accidents on property of public service corporations; ( ACC Investigates)
40- 339. Refusal of common carrier to receive or carry passenger; classification.
40- 846. Electric headlights; violation; penalty.
40- 847. Bells on locomotives; violation; penalties.
40- 848. Automatic bell ringer required; violation; classification.
40- 849. Transportation of employees; equipment required; ( Transporting Railroad employees)
40- 852. Allowing engine or car to remain upon public crossing; ( Stopped > 15 minutes; unavoidable
delays)
40- 854. Failure to warn at public crossing; ( 1,320 to 1,500 ft. horn blowing)
40- 855. Violation of duty by railroad officer or employee; ( Criminal Negligence)
40- 856. Railroad police; powers; qualifications; ( Powers of Peace Officers with DPS appointment.)
40- 881. Train crew requirements. ( Passenger equipment)
40- 882. Train crews; penalty for violation of full crew requirements.
40- 883. Exceptions to full crew requirements.
40- 884. Train dispatcher; age and experience; violation; classification.
42- 5062. Transporting classification.
28- 101 Def.: # 56. " Vehicle" means a device in, on or by which a person or property is or may be
transported or drawn on a public hwy., excluding devices moved by human power or used
exclusively on stationary rails or tracks.
Criminal Trespass and Burglary
13- 1502. Criminal trespass in the third degree; classification.
Statute text
A. A person commits criminal trespass in the third degree by:
1. Knowingly entering or remaining unlawfully on any real property after a reasonable request to leave by
the owner or any other person having lawful control over such property, or reasonable notice prohibiting
entry.
32
2. Knowingly entering or remaining unlawfully on the right- of- way for tracks, or the storage or switching
yards or rolling stock of a railroad company.
B. Criminal trespass in the third degree is a class 3 misdemeanor.
Criminal Damage to Property
13- 1602. Criminal damage; classification.
Statute text
A. A person commits criminal damage by recklessly:
1. Defacing or damaging property of another person; or
2. Tampering with property of another person so as substantially to impair its function or value; or
3. Tampering with the property of a utility.
4. Parking any vehicle in such a manner as to deprive livestock of access to the only reasonably available
water.
5. Drawing or inscribing a message, slogan, sign or symbol that is made on any public or private building,
structure or surface, except the ground, and that is made without permission of the owner.
B. Criminal damage is punished as follows:
1. Criminal damage is a class 4 felony if the person recklessly damages property of another in an amount
of ten thousand dollars or more, or if the person recklessly causes impairment of the functioning of any
utility.
2. Criminal damage is a class 5 felony if the person recklessly damages property of another in an amount
of two thousand dollars or more but less than ten thousand dollars.
3. Criminal damage is a class 6 felony if the person recklessly damages property of another in an amount
of more than two hundred fifty dollars but less than two thousand dollars.
4. In all other cases criminal damage is a class 2 misdemeanor.
13- 3720. Dropping objects from overpass; classification; definition.
Statute text
A. A person on an overpass who with criminal negligence drops, throws, shoots or otherwise propels an object
at or on the lower level street or highway or at or on a motor vehicle that is standing or being operated on
the lower level street or highway is guilty of a class 1 misdemeanor.
B. For purposes of this section, " overpass" means the upper level of a crossing, at different levels, of two
streets or highways or a street or highway and a pedestrian path or railroad.
28- 622. Failure to comply with police officer; classification.
Statute text
A. A person shall not willfully fail or refuse to comply with any lawful order or direction of a police officer
invested by law with authority to direct, control or regulate traffic.
B. A person who violates this section is guilty of a class 2 misdemeanor.
28- 623. Obedience by public officers and employees; exceptions.
Statute text
33
A. Except as provided in this section and subject to specific exceptions prescribed in this chapter and chapters
4 and 5 of this title with reference to authorized emergency vehicles, the provisions of this chapter and
chapters 4 and 5 of this title applicable to the drivers of vehicles on the highways apply to the drivers of all
vehicles owned or operated by the United States, this state or any county, city, town, district or other
political subdivision of this state
.
B. Unless specifically made applicable by law, this chapter and chapters 4 and 5 of this title:
1. Do not apply to persons, teams, motor vehicles and other equipment while actually engaged in work on
the surface of a highway.
2. Do not apply to railroad employees working on a railroad track or tracks crossing the highway.
3. Apply to persons and vehicles described in this section if they are traveling to or from work on the
surface of a highway or on a railroad track or tracks crossing the highway.
Utility Vehicles.
Telephone company was not liable for negligence where its vehicle had a permit from the city which entitled it to
park in the right- of- way off of the paved portion of the highway during the excavation of a utility pit within the
highway right- of- way easement, which was conduct exempt under this section. Beck v. Mountain States Tel. &
Tel. Co., 153 Ariz. 426, 737 P. 2d 402 ( Ct. App. 1987).
The owner of a utility vehicle which is lawfully parked off the paved, traveled portion of the highway, has no
obligation to prevent injury to a jaywalking pedestrian. Beck v. Mountain States Tel. & Tel. Co., 153 Ariz. 426, 737
P. 2d 402 ( Ct. App. 1987).
Traffic Signs, Signals, and Markings
28- 644. Obedience to and required traffic control devices.
Statute text
A. Unless otherwise directed by a traffic or police officer and subject to the exemptions granted the driver of
an authorized emergency vehicle in this chapter, the driver of a vehicle shall:
1. Obey the instructions of an official traffic control device applicable to the driver that is placed in
accordance with this chapter.
2. Not drive over or across or park in any part of a gore area. This paragraph does not apply to the driver
of a vehicle that is disabled while on the paved or main traveled portion of a highway in a manner and
to an extent that it is impossible to avoid stopping and temporarily leaving the disabled vehicle in that
position. For the purposes of this paragraph, " gore area" means the area that is between a through
roadway and an entrance ramp or exit ramp and that is defined by two wide solid white lines that guide
traffic entering or exiting a roadway. Gore area does not include a safety zone.
B. Any provision of this chapter that requires signs shall not be enforced against an alleged violator if at the
time and place of the alleged violation an official sign is not in proper position and sufficiently legible to be
seen by an ordinarily observant person. If a particular section of law does not state that signs are required,
that section is effective even though no signs are erected or in place.
In General.
Motorists who approach an intersection controlled by a traffic signal are required by law to abide by the signal,
and may accordingly proceed in reliance of the signal alone. Johnson v. Maricopa County, 152 Ariz. 153, 730
P. 2d 862 ( Ct. App. 1986).
28- 649. Interference with official traffic control device or railroad sign or signal; possession of traffic
preemption emitter; classification; definition.
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Statute text
A. A person shall not attempt without lawful authority to or in fact alter, deface, injure, knock down or remove
an official traffic control device, a railroad sign or signal or an inscription, shield or insignia on any device,
sign or signal or any part of the device, sign or signal.
B. A person shall not possess a traffic preemption emitter unless the person is authorized to possess a traffic
preemption emitter within the course and scope of the person's duties with a law enforcement agency, fire
department, ambulance service or agency of the federal government, this state or a political subdivision of
this state.
C. A person who violates this section is guilty of a class 1 misdemeanor.
D. For the purposes of this section, " traffic preemption emitter" means strobe, strobe light or any device that
is capable of changing the display of any traffic control device used to control the movement of vehicles,
bicycles or pedestrians.
28- 726. Limitations on driving to left of roadway center.
Statute text
A. A person shall not drive a vehicle to the left side of the roadway under the following conditions:
1. When approaching the crest of a grade or on a curve in the highway where the driver's view is
obstructed within such distance as to create a hazard in the event another vehicle might approach from
the opposite direction.
2. When approaching within one hundred feet of or traversing any intersection or railroad grade crossing or
where appropriate signs or markings have been installed to define a no passing zone.
3. When the view is obstructed on approaching within one hundred feet of any bridge, viaduct or tunnel.
B. The limitations provided in this section do not apply on a one- way roadway.
Where defendant was approximately 3 feet over the imaginary center line of a smooth gravel roadway 21 feet in
width, defendant's driving was a violation of statute. Petefish ex rel. Clancy v. Dawe, 137 Ariz. 593, 672 P. 2d 937
( Ct. App. 1982), modified on other grounds, 137 Ariz. 570, 672 P. 2d 914 ( 1983).
Special Stops Required
28- 851. Approach of train; signal.
Statute text
A. When a person driving a vehicle approaches a railroad grade crossing, the driver of the vehicle shall stop
within fifty feet but not less than fifteen feet from the nearest rail of the railroad and shall not proceed until
the driver can do so safely under any of the following circumstances:
1. A clearly visible electric or mechanical signal device gives warning of the immediate approach of a
railroad train.
2. A crossing gate is lowered or a human flagman gives or continues to give a signal of the approach or
passage of a railroad train.
3. A railroad train approaching within approximately one thousand five hundred feet of the highway
crossing emits a signal audible from such distance and the railroad train is an immediate hazard by
reason of its speed or proximity to the crossing.
4. An approaching railroad train is plainly visible and is in hazardous proximity to the crossing.
B. A person shall not drive a vehicle through, around or under a crossing gate or barrier at a railroad crossing
while the gate or barrier is closed or is being opened or closed.
28- 852. Dangerous railroad grade crossing.
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Statute text
The director, and local authorities with the approval of the director, may designate particularly dangerous highway
grade crossings of railroads and may erect stop signs at the crossings. If the stop signs are erected, the driver of
a vehicle shall stop within fifty feet but not less than fifteen feet from the nearest rail of the railroad and shall
proceed only on exercising due care.
28- 853. Railroad grade crossing; stop required of certain vehicles.
Statute text
A. Except as otherwise provided in this article, before crossing at grade any track or tracks of a railroad, the
driver of a motor vehicle carrying passengers for hire, of any school bus carrying any school child or of any
vehicle carrying or returning after delivery of explosive substances or flammable liquids as a cargo or part
of a cargo shall stop the vehicle within fifty feet but not less than fifteen feet from the nearest rail of the
railroad, while stopped listen and look in both directions along the track for an approaching train and for
signals indicating the approach of a train and not proceed until the driver can do so safely. After stopping
as required by this section and on proceeding when it is safe to do so, the driver of the vehicle shall cross
only in a gear of the vehicle for which there is no need to change gears while traversing the crossing and
shall not shift gears while crossing the track or tracks.
B. This section does not apply at:
1. A crossing where a police officer or a traffic control signal directs traffic to proceed.
2. A street railway grade crossing within a business or residence district.
28- 854. Railroad grade crossing; moving heavy equipment; exception; definition.
Statute text
A. A person shall not operate or move any heavy equipment on or across a track at a railroad grade crossing
unless:
1. Notice of the intended crossing is given to a station agent of the railroad.
2. Before making the crossing, the person operating or moving the vehicle or equipment:
( a) Stops the vehicle or equipment at least fifteen feet but not more than fifty feet from the nearest rail of
the railroad.
( b) While so stopped, listens and looks in both directions along the track for an approaching train and
for signals indicating the approach of a train.
3. Does not proceed until the crossing can be made safely.
B. A person shall not make a crossing pursuant to this section when a warning is given by automatic signal,
crossing gates or a flagman or otherwise of the immediate approach of a railroad train or car. If a flagman
is provided by the railroad, movement over the crossing shall be under the flagman's direction.
C. This section does not apply to the normal movement of farm equipment in the regular course of a farm
operation.
D. For the purposes of this section, " heavy equipment" means any crawler type tractor,
steam shovel, derrick, roller or other equipment or structure having a normal operating
speed of ten miles per hour or less or a vertical body or load clearance of less than one-half
inch per foot of the distance between any two adjacent axles or in any event of less
than nine inches measured above the level surface of a roadway.
28- 855. Stop signs; yield signs.
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Statute text
A. The director, with reference to state highways, and local authorities, with reference to other highways under
their jurisdiction, may designate through highways and erect stop or yield signs at specified entrances to
the through highways or may designate an intersection as a stop or yield intersection and erect like signs
at one or more entrances to the intersection.
B. A driver of a vehicle approaching a stop sign shall stop before entering the crosswalk on the near side of
the intersection, or if there is no crosswalk, shall stop at a clearly marked stop line, or if there is no line,
shall stop at the point nearest the intersecting roadway where the driver has a view of approaching traffic
on the intersecting roadway before entering the intersection except when directed to proceed by a police
officer.
C. The driver of a vehicle approaching a yield sign shall slow down in obedience to the sign to a speed
reasonable for the existing conditions and shall yield the right- of- way to any vehicle in the intersection or
approaching on another highway so closely as to constitute an immediate hazard during the time the driver
is moving across or within the intersection. If after driving past a yield sign without stopping the driver is
involved in a collision with a vehicle in the intersection, the collision is prima facie evidence of the driver's
failure to yield the right- of- way.
Relevance.
A motorist who has stopped at a stop sign must rely on his own observations of approaching traffic on the
intersecting roadway before he may proceed; accordingly, the presence or absence of an unobstructed view at an
intersection posted with stop signs is not legally irrelevant to a negligence suit against a county. Johnson v.
Maricopa County, 152 Ariz. 153, 730 P. 2d 862 ( Ct. App. 1986).
28- 873. Stopping, standing or parking prohibitions.
Statute text
Except if necessary to avoid conflict with other traffic or if in compliance with law or the directions of a police
officer or traffic control device, a person shall not stop, stand or park a vehicle in any of the following places:
1. On a sidewalk.
2. In front of a public or private driveway, except that this paragraph does not apply to a vehicle or the driver
of a vehicle engaged in the official delivery of the United States mail if both of the following apply:
( a) The driver does not leave the vehicle.
( b) The vehicle is stopped only momentarily.
3. Within an intersection.
4. Within fifteen feet of a fire hydrant.
5. On a crosswalk.
6. Within twenty feet of a crosswalk at an intersection.
7. Within thirty feet on the approach to any flashing beacon, stop sign, yield sign or traffic control signal
located at the side of a roadway.
8. Between a safety zone and the adjacent curb or within thirty feet of points on the curb immediately
opposite the ends of a safety zone, unless the director or a local authority indicates a different length by
signs or markings.
9. Within fifty feet of the nearest rail or a railroad crossing or within eight feet six inches of the center of any
railroad track, except while a motor vehicle with motive power attached is loading or unloading railroad
cars.
10. Within twenty feet of the driveway entrance to a fire station and on the side of a street opposite the
entrance to any fire station within seventy- five feet of the entrance when properly posted.
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11. Alongside or opposite a street excavation or obstruction when stopping, standing or parking would
obstruct traffic.
12. On the roadway side of a vehicle stopped or parked at the edge or curb of a street.
13. On a bridge or other elevated structure on a highway or within a highway tunnel.
14. At any place where official signs prohibit standing or stopping.
15. On a controlled access highway except for emergency reasons or except in areas specifically designated
for parking such as rest areas.
Utility Vehicles.
Where a telephone company vehicle had a permit from the city which entitled it to park in the right- of- way off of
the paved portion of the highway and next to the excavation of a utility pit within the highway right- of- way
easement, which easement permits the use of right- of- way for utilities, the conduct was exempt ( see § 28- 623)
from subsection 14 of this section, and not negligent as a matter of law. Beck v. Mountain States Tel. & Tel. Co.,
153 Ariz. 426, 737 P. 2d 402 ( Ct. App. 1987).
28- 3312. Mandatory disqualification of commercial driver license; definition.
Statute text
A. The department shall disqualify a person from driving a commercial motor vehicle as follows:
1. Except as provided in subsection F of this section and except as otherwise provided in this subsection,
for at least one year from the date a person is convicted of a first violation of any of the following:
( a) Driving a commercial motor vehicle under the influence of intoxicating liquor or a controlled
substance or while having an alcohol concentration of 0.04 or more.
( b) Leaving the scene of an accident involving a motor vehicle driven by the person.
( c) Using a motor vehicle in the commission of a felony.
( d) A violation of chapter 4, article 3 of this title while operating a noncommercial motor vehicle.
2. For at least three years, if any of the violations prescribed in paragraph 1 of this subsection occurred
while the person was transporting a hazardous material in the quantity and under the circumstances
that require placarding of the transport vehicle under the department's safety rules pursuant to chapter
14 of this title.
3. Except as provided in subsection B of this section, for the life of the person, if the person is convicted of
two or more violations of any of the offenses prescribed in paragraph 1 of this subsection or of any
combination of those offenses arising from two or more separate incidents. The department shall
consider only offenses committed from and after December 31, 1989 in applying this paragraph.
4. For the life of the person, if the person uses a commercial motor vehicle in the commission of a felony
involving the manufacture, distribution or dispensing of a controlled substance or possession with intent
to manufacture, distribute or dispense a controlled substance.
5. For at least sixty consecutive days, if the person is convicted of two serious traffic violations committed
in a motor vehicle arising from separate incidents occurring within a three year period from the date of
the conviction.
6. For at least one hundred twenty consecutive days, if the person is convicted of three serious traffic
violations committed in a motor vehicle arising from separate incidents occurring within a three year
period from the date of the conviction.
B. Except as provided in subsection C of this section, a person who is found responsible for violating an out-of-
service order pursuant to section 28- 5241 is disqualified from driving a commercial motor vehicle as
follows:
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1. For a period of ninety days if the person is found responsible for a first violation of an out- of- service
order.
2. For a period of one year if the person is found responsible for a second violation of any out- of- service
order during any ten year period arising from separate incidents.
3. For a period of three years if the person is found responsible for a third or subsequent violation of any
out- of- service order during any ten year period arising from separate incidents.
C. A person who is found responsible for violating an out- of- service order pursuant to section 28- 5241 while
transporting hazardous materials or while operating a commercial motor vehicle designed or used to
transport sixteen or more passengers, including the driver, is disqualified from driving a commercial motor
vehicle as follows:
1. For a period of one hundred eighty days if the person is found responsible for a first violation of an out-of-
service order.
2. For a period of two years if the person is found responsible for a second or subsequent violation of any
out- of- service order during any ten year period arising from separate incidents.
D. A person who is convicted of or found responsible for violating any federal, state or local railroad grade
crossing law, ordinance or regulation is disqualified from driving a commercial motor vehicle as follows:
1. For a period of sixty days if a person is convicted of or found responsible for a first violation.
2. For a period of one hundred twenty days if a person is convicted of or found responsible for a second
violation during any three year period.
3. For a period of one year if a person is convicted of or found responsible for a third or subsequent
violation during any three year period.
E. The department shall permanently disqualify a person from driving a commercial motor vehicle if the person
does any of the following:
1. More than once refuses a test in violation of section 28- 1321 if the refusals involve more than one
incident.
2. More than once is convicted of violating chapter 4, article 3 of this title.
3. More than once uses a noncommercial motor vehicle in the commission of a felony.
F. If a federal agency determines that a commercial motor vehicle licensee is driving in a manner that
constitutes an imminent hazard, the department, on receipt of notification by the federal government, shall
disqualify the driver for a period not to exceed one year. For the purposes of this subsection, " imminent
hazard" means the existence of a condition that presents a substantial likelihood that death, serious
illness, severe personal injury or a substantial endangerment to health, property or the environment may
occur before the reasonably foreseeable completion date of a formal proceeding to decrease the risk of
death, illness, injury or endangerment.
G. The department shall keep records of findings of responsibility for a civil traffic violation and of conviction of
any moving criminal traffic violation for a commercial driver licensee if the violations arise from a
commercial motor vehicle or a noncommercial motor vehicle.
H. A person found responsible within three years for a second violation of any of the following shall be
disqualified from driving a commercial motor vehicle for a period of sixty days and for a period of one
hundred twenty days for a third or subsequent violation of any of the following:
1. Driving a commercial motor vehicle when the person has not been issued a valid commercial driver
license.
2. Driving a commercial motor vehicle without a commercial driver license in the person's possession.
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3. D