UTC 2022 Funding - Cycle 2 Research Projects

Project No.: CY3-TSU-01
Title: Improving Traveler Experience Via Alternatives to Roadway/Railway Grade Crossings
Performing Institution: Texas Southern University
Principal Investigator: Carol Abel Lewis and Gwendolyn Goodwin, Texas Southern University
Start and Anticipated Completion Dates: 01/01/2026 to 01/15/2027 
Abstract: The focus of this research will be Fort Bend County and Harris County Texas, which include major freight corridors from Port Houston, the 3rd largest container port in the country. Between the two counties, there are at least 11,000 at grade crossings. Specifically, this work will assemble delay time data showing frequency and duration for the identified railroad crossings. The team will conduct literature review and on-line and in-person conversations to determine options and strategies underway by entities (e.g., railroad operators), municipalities, and others to address better traveler information and options to reduce and avoid delay time. Potential options include cameras noting delays and following with notifications to emergency services proximate to locations with frequent delays. The study team will examine whether this information distribution could be expanded to additional users. An additional option to be examined is message signs alerting travelers to blocked crossings in time to adjust their travel route. The expected research outcome is to provide an option to grade separations that will reduce delay time for travelers caused by blocked train crossings. 
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