Rep. Maloney calls on FRA to perform deep dive examination of crossings

Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney (NY-18) called for the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to do a "Deep Dive" examination into measures to reduce collisions and deaths following what he called "a significant increase" in these accidents at grade crossings.

Specifically, Maloney urged FRA experts to look into the most effective and cost efficient safety devices, warning signals and gates to notify motorists and pedestrians of an approaching train, other FRA funding sources to ensure communities can install necessary technology or relocate crossings, efforts to expand public education and a new minimum distance between the tracks and grade crossings. He also asked for a classification system for more dangerous crossings; new minimum distance between the tracks and grade crossings and technology including crash management technology, Positive Train Control and sensors.

In his letter, Maloney wrote, “In light of the rising number of collisions at grade crossings and several serious passenger train derailments, I believe we must take a comprehensive, fresh look at safety measures, new technologies and education efforts to prevent future accidents. The statistics and the Metro North rail tragedy underscore my concern that our country has not fully identified and implemented all of the best practices and technology that can make our rail system safer and prevent tragedies like the one at Valhalla.”