WEST MEMPHIS, Ark. — Have you constantly faced long waits at railroad crossings in West Memphis due to a train? If so, you are not alone.
The City of West Memphis said it has received numerous reports about frequent and lengthy train blockages that are disrupting daily commutes and impacting emergency services.
The city is talking with railway companies to find acceptable solutions to lessen the frequency and duration of train blockages, balancing the needs of the city and critical services supported by these trains.
There is at least one thing drivers can do to help. The city is encouraging residents to report incidents to the Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) Blocked Crossing Incident Reporter.
Drivers should only fill out one report for each blocked crossing incident. Submitting these FRA reports helps record the location and impacts of blocked crossings, adding to discussions with railway companies, the city said.
ABC24 reached out to FRA to see how they utilize these reports. A spokesperson said the data collected is used to help further examine the issue and find solutions for repeatedly blocked crossings.
"When there are reoccurring complaints submitted through the Blocked Crossing Incident Reporter, the FRA works with local officials and the railroads to identify short term operational changes and long term solutions," the FRA spokesperson said.
Additionally, FRA is employing the Railroad Crossing Elimination (RCE) Program to help communities with grade crossing issues. President Joe Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law created the program, which "will receive $3 billion over five years to address blocked crossings and grade crossing safety nationwide by funding the construction of underpasses and overpasses, grade crossing eliminations, and grade crossing safety features." Local officials can apply for RCE grant funds for needed highway-rail grade separations.
FRA did note that there is no federal statute or regulation regarding how long trains may block highway-rail grade crossings.
In June 2023, Arkansas received $500,000 in RCE funding to help reduce blocked crossings and train-vehicle collisions. We are reaching out to see what progress has been made.
The City of West Memphis said updates regarding these issues locally will be reported during city council meetings and on the city's official website.
ABC24 will continue to reach out to officials for solutions and actions residents can take to address this issue.
Are you seeking solutions to a problem facing you and your community? We want to hear from you. Text “SOLUTIONS” and include your concern to (901) 321-7520. You can also fill out this contact form.
