Rail Crossing Design References
The following references assist in the development of rail crossing projects. Please note that these references may not be entirely consistent with CPUC policy. CPUC General Orders set the minimum requirements for all crossings in the state. Contact the CPUC Rail Crossings and Engineering Branch for clarification.
FHWA Crossing Handbook
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) publishes the Grade Crossing Handbook (web or PDF) as a core reference regarding rail crossing safety.
Caltrans Design Standards
The State of California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) publishes design requirements for design of roadways under state jurisdiction. Local roadway authorities often use similar standards.
- Pedestrian Accessibility Guidelines (DIB 82-06)
- Highway Design Manual railroad crossing references
- Section 309.1, 309.2, 309.5 - Horizontal and Vertical Clearances
- Section 204.8, 208.9 - Underpasses and Overheads
- Section 104.3 (frontage); Sections 403.3, 1003.5 (Angle)
Rail Crossing Engineering Plans
The 2 largest commuter railroads in the state publish excellent plans that include details about ways to design for both vehicular and pedestrian safety at rail crossings. Please note that CPUC General Orders set the minimum requirements for all crossings in the state, and rail crossing construction or modification must be authorized by CPUC.
Caltrain (Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board)
For grade crossing details, see their Engineering Standards and Design Criteria references.
- Design Criteria Chapter 7
- Standard Drawings SD-7000 series
Metrolink (Southern California Regional Rail Authority)
For grade crossing details, see their Engineering and Construction references.
- Engineering Standards 4000 series
- Recommended Design Practices and Standards Manual
- ES4301 – Traffic Control Work in Vicinity of Highway-Rail Grade Crossing
Reports
In 2010 the North Lane Pedestrian Safety Study was completed to assess pedestrian compliance at a crossing in Burlingame, California. The study evaluates the effectiveness of fencing and channelization in conjunction with automatic gate arms and manual emergency exit swing gates.