00935467

Monograph

http://onlinepubs.trb.org...epubs/tcrp/tcrp_rrd_51.pdf

This digest provides the results of two demonstrations of active warning systems that could increase awareness of and compliance with the conditions of the second train coming phenomenon. The Los Angeles Metro Blue Line demonstration project was carried out to investigate the use of a train-activated warning sign as a means of reducing the added hazard for pedestrians of two trains in a highway-railroad intersection (HRI) at the same time. The demonstration project was conducted at one of the Metro Blue Line's most hazardous HRIs, on the south sidewalk at the Vernon Avenue intersection with the Metro Blue Line and Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) tracks. The sidewalk crosses two light rail transit (LRT) tracks and two UPRR freight tracks. From the analysis of before and after video data, the demonstration project found that the warning sign was effective in reducing risky behavior by pedestrians. One of the most challenging aspects that the Maryland Mass Transit Administration's (MTA's) Baltimore Central Light Rail Line system has experienced is the "second train coming" (STC) phenomenon on double track crossings. The objective of this project was to test an active sign warning system that could increase motorists' awareness of and compliance with the conditions of an STC phenomenon. The employment of a 128-frame, animated light emitting diode sign at the Timonium Road crossing resulted in a significant reduction in risky behavior by drivers. The STC sign was well received and understood by motorists.

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English

67 p.

2002-11

TCRP Research Results Digest

Appendices; Figures; Photos; Tables

Before and after studies; Compliance; Demonstration projects; Double track; Drivers; Freight trains; Light rail transit; Light rail transit grade crossings; Pedestrian safety; Railroad grade crossings; Risk taking; Sidewalks; Warning systems

Baltimore Central Light Rail Line; Blue Line (Los Angeles County Metro Rail)

Animated LED signs; Second train warning; Train-activated warning signs

Freight Transportation; Highways; Operations and Traffic Management; Public Transportation; Railroads; Terminals and Facilities

TRIS, TRB, ATRI

Dec 23 2003 12:00AM