Media Contact: (360) 664-1116 or media@utc.wa.gov
Docket Numbers: TR-220777, TR-220779, TR-220780, TR-220781, TR-220782, TR-220784, TR-220785
LACEY, Wash. - The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission approved $104,500 in grant funding to enhance safety at railroad crossings in Walla Walla County.
Commissioners granted seven Grade Crossing Protective Fund awards to replace train detection equipment along the Columbia-Walla Walla Railroad in the city of Walla Walla, Walla Walla County, and College Place. Affected crossings include:
- Last Chance Road in Walla Walla County.
- Myra Road in Walla Walla.
- Poplar Street in Walla Walla.
- Rose Street in Walla Walla.
- Tietan Street in Walla Walla.
- Prospect Avenue in Walla Walla County.
- Wallula Avenue in College Place.
The new train detection equipment will improve the serviceability and reliability of the crossing system, thereby increasing safety for crossing users.
In 1969, the Legislature created the GCPF program to provide funding for safety measures to reduce accidents and fatalities at public and private crossings and along railroad tracks.
The UTC regulates railroad safety, including 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 Operation Lifesaver.