In the Northeast-Midwest region served by Conrail, each state establishes its own priorities as to which grade crossings will be improved under the federal program. About 60 percent of the grade crossings on the Conrail system are equipped with some form of automatic warning device. Normally, communities initiate requests for installation of grade crossing warning devices by contacting the appropriate state agency. When this basic decision has been made the railroad submits plans and cost estimates. The state then secures federal government approval, after which the railroad prepares detailed engineering designs and orders the necessary materials.
Work begins after the materials are received.
Because of the involvement of so many parties, the entire process, from the time the community contacts the state until the work begins, usually takes about two years. The State of Delaware, recognizing that grade crossings are installed for the convenience of the public, rather than the railroad, has taken the lead in this area. Delaware funds 50 percent of the costs for maintaining automatic grade crossing devices along Conrail lines in the state. Where governments have not yet provided funding, railroads fund maintenance of safety devices, as well as the tracks and roadway surface. Railroads invest millions of dollars each year on crossing maintenance.