UTC Approves $73,000 for Puyallup Fence Project
Written by Jennifer McLawhorn, Managing Editor
Courtesy of UTC
LACEY, Wash. - The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) approved a $73,000 grant for a Puyallup fencing project.
The Grade Crossing Protective Fund (GCPF) grant will be used to install 678 feet of 5/8 inch gauge mesh security fencing along the BNSF right-of-way. The fence will measure 6 feet tall. Located at 15th Street NW, 17th Street NW, and 19th Street NW, the fencing “will reduce trespassing and help guide pedestrians toward public, signalized railroad crossings.”
In the past, the line has experienced fatalities related to trespassing. With this new fence, public safety is expected to improve “significantly.” After a recent fatality, the UTC Rail Safety staff reportedly informed the City of Puyallup that GCPF funds were available for projects to prevent this.
