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Public utilities

Colorado Public Utilities Commission Approves Plan to Upgrade Highway Crossing Near Boulder

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Colorado Public Utilities Commission has granted preliminary approval for the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) to relocate an existing at-grade highway rail crossing on State Highway 52 in Boulder County. The project, which includes the addition of flashing light signals, gates, bells, and constant warning time circuitry, aims to improve safety and reduce accidents at the crossing. CDOT estimates the cost of civil engineering work to be approximately $1.29 million, with the total project timeline spanning from April 1, 2024, to December 31, 2026.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Commission deemed the CDOT application complete within the meaning of § 40-6-109.5, C.R.S., after reviewing the record in the matter.
  • The Commission approved the proposed plans and required additional filings in the matter, including BNSF's provision of cost estimates and state sketches by March 31, 2024.
  • CDOT is required to update the U.S. DOT National Inventory form for this crossing and file an updated copy of the form in this proceeding by December 31, 2026.
  • The Commission has jurisdiction in this matter under §§ 40-4-106(2)(a) and (3)(a), C.R.S.
  • The Commission finds that good cause exists and that the requirements of public safety are met by approving the proposed plans and requiring additional filings.
  • CDOT estimates the cost of civil engineering work to be approximately $1.29 million.
  • The project timeline spans from April 1, 2024, to December 31, 2026, with a projected increase in vehicle volume from 10,000 VPD in 2020 to 12,000 VPD in 20 years.

Statistics:

  • 6 trains per day use the crossing at a maximum timetable speed of 49 MPH with no anticipated increases or decreases in the number or character of trains at this time.
  • 10,000 Vehicles Per Day (VPD) currently use the crossing, with approximately 3.5 percent heavy vehicles and school buses using the crossing.
  • Vehicle volume is projected to increase to 10,470 VPD in five years and 12,000 VPD in 20 years.
  • 5 accidents have occurred at the crossing since 1975, including 4 property damage-only accidents and 1 injury accident.
  • $1,290,260 is estimated for civil engineering work.

Sources:

  • Before the Public Utilities Commission of the State of Colorado Decision No. C24-0047-I (January 24, 2024)

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