Colorado Public Utilities Commission Approves Removal of At-Grade Railroad Crossing in Castle Rock

Strategic Insights -

The Public Utilities Commission of Colorado has issued a decision granting The Town of Castle Rock permission to remove the existing at-grade railroad crossing at Territorial Road and construct a new overpass bridge over the BNSF tracks. The project aims to improve safety and reduce congestion in the area. The Commission deemed the application complete and granted it without a formal hearing, citing the lack of opposition from the involved parties. The project is estimated to cost $69.58 million and is expected to be completed by March 31, 2027. BNSF Railway Company has voluntarily contributed $920,243.70 to the project.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Public Utilities Commission of Colorado has approved the removal of the existing at-grade railroad crossing at Territorial Road in Castle Rock.
  • The project will construct a new overpass bridge over the BNSF tracks, improving safety and reducing congestion in the area.
  • The estimated cost of the project is $69.58 million, with BNSF Railway Company contributing $920,243.70.
  • The project is expected to be completed by March 31, 2027, with The Town of Castle Rock responsible for informing the Commission that all work is complete.
  • BNSF Railway Company will update the National Inventory Form to reflect the closure of the at-grade crossing and create a new form for the Crystal Valley Parkway grade-separated crossing.

Statistics:

  • Estimated cost of the project: $69,579,082.70
  • BNSF Railway Company's contribution to the project: $920,243.70
  • Number of trains that use the crossing per day: 2
  • Maximum speed of trains using the crossing: 45 MPH
  • Minimum clearance under the bridge structure: 23'-7" from the top of rail to the bottom of the girder.

Sources:

  • Decision No. C25-0497 FROM THE PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION OF THE STATE OF COLORADO PROCEEDING NO. 25A-0186R
  • Colorado Public Utilities Commission Rules Regulating Railroads, Rail Fixed Guideways, Transportation by Rail, and Rail Crossings
  • Code of Colorado Regulations 723-7
  • The Town of Castle Rock's Application filed on May 1, 2025