Introduction
When TxDOT, the local government and the railroad company
collectively agree to consolidate and close crossings, TxDOT makes
funding available to local governments
for
the
following related improvements:- Removal ofthe existing pavement at the crossing.
- Construction ofa satisfactory terminus of the roadway at the removed crossing.
- Installation ofproper signs acknowledging the closing of the crossing.
- Upgrades tothe existing railroad signals.
- Improvements to the existing streets nearthe closed crossing to handle the diverted traffic.
No funding is provided to the railroad company, as the crossing
closure is considered a benefit to them. A signed agreement between
TxDOT, the railroad company, and the local
government
will
be executed before the work is authorized.Section 130 program can match the railroad contribution
up to $100,000 from TxDOT to the local government per individual
public road closure.
The local government must use the Section
130
funds from TxDOT only for roadway, safety and operational
improvements associated with the crossing closure within the vicinity
of the closed crossing, as approved in advance by TxDOT. The
railroad company contribution may add incentive dollars, which can
be used at the local government's discretion. The railroad contribution
may include in-kind service such as removal of the crossing surface
and warning devices.
For locations that are part of the Section 130 preliminary
project list, and a crossing closure project is subsequently denied
by a local government, RRD may follow a new path to include various safety
upgrades. RRD reserves the right to cancel a closure project after
a predetermined time, typically one year from the date of the closure
Proposal Letter (defined below).