A Framework for Assessing Models that Rank Highway-Rail Grade Crossings for Improvement
Publication: Journal of Transportation Engineering
Volume 131, Issue 5
Abstract
In the Midwest, three states in recent years have re-examined their grade crossing model. Illinois conducted a study that developed a new model, the expected accident frequency formula, using a nonlinear regression analysis procedure. Kansas also recently re-examined their model and replaced their design hazard rating formula with a simpler one developed for New Hampshire. Finally, the Missouri Department of Transportation began a similar assessment in 2001. In this paper, we present a framework for assessing grade-crossing models and selecting a preferred model. The methodology consists of five steps that can be adapted to fit most any situation. After presenting this framework, we apply it to Missouri’s evaluation of its exposure index. A major strength of the five-step approach is that it brings together key stakeholders and involves them in the process of establishing characteristics of the “best” model. This dialog strengthens the credibility of any decision to keep or revise a state’s grade crossing model. We are confident that the five-step framework used in this study can be used by any agency seeking to upgrade its grade crossing model.
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Acknowledgments
This study was conducted at the request of the Missouri Department of Transportation and with their financial support. The writers wish to thank Jan Skouby, Mark Zacher, Jennifer Thompson, Bruce Chinn, and Richard Allsbury of the Missouri Department of Transportation for their guidance and assistance throughout this study.
References
Elzohairy, Y. M., and Benekohal, R. F. (2000). “Evaluation of expected accident frequency formulas for rail–highway crossings.” Rep. No. ITRC FR 98-2, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Univ. of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Ill.
Federal Highway Administration, (FHWA). (1986). “Railroad–highway grade crossing handbook.” Rep. No. FHWA-TS-86-215, Washington, D.C.
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). (2003). “Highway-rail grade crossing facts.” <http://safety.fhwa.dot.gov/fourthlevel/prof_res_hiwaygreadexing_facts.htm> (July 11, 2003).
Kraft, D. (2001). “Development of an updated highway/railroad grade crossing rating & ranking procedure.” Project No.106 K-7354-02, Burns & McDonnell Engineering Company.
Muth, J. M., and Eck, R. W. (1986). “Adapting the U.S Department of Transportation rail-highway crossing resource allocation model to the microcomputer.” Transportation Research Record, 1069, Transportation Research Board, Washington, D.C., 101–109.
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© 2005 ASCE.
History
Received: Nov 18, 2003
Accepted: Oct 20, 2004
Published online: May 1, 2005
Published in print: May 2005
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