UTC Approves $175K for Rail Crossing Upgrades
Written by Jennifer McLawhorn, Managing Editor
UTC
LACEY, Wash. - $175,000 in Grade Crossing Protective Fund (GCPF) grants will go toward rail crossing upgrades in Walla Walla County.
Seven crossings near Walla Walla and College Place will see new crossing signal bungalows, says UTC. Columbia Rail will install the bungalows, or small buildings that house electronic equipment that detects upcoming trains and activates the lights and crossing gates. These bungalows will be better sealed as to protect the equipment inside from the elements, dust, and moisture. Additionally, they will house HVAC equipment and power outlets to “stabilize conditions and prevent system failures,” allowing for better reliability.
About UTC
UTC regulates railroad safety that includes “approving new rail crossings and closing or altering existing crossings, investigating train accidents, inspecting railroad crossings, approving safety projects, and promoting rail safety education through Washington Operation Lifesaver.”
