Congestion in the Vancouver area has compromised the efficient movement of freight and passenger trains. From the community's perspective, train traffic produces noise, blocks the 39th Street crossing, and is a safety concern. Cars and pedestrians currently must cross seven sets of train tracks at the 39th Street crossing. A proposed bypass within the rail yard would reduce congestion for train traffic by adding two additional tracks. Safety is a concern for people who would have to cross nine tracks when driving or walking through the crossing.
Some people drive or walk around closed crossing gates.
This behavior is both dangerous and illegal. Working collaboratively, the project team and CRT identified 10 alternatives. Close the 39th Street Crossing. Construct a vehicular overpass and close the old crossing. This public hearing has been rescheduled to July because the technical analysis and internal review process have taken longer than anticipated.