Level crossings and Grade separation - level crossing removal

[ozbob]

From the ABC News click here!

Qld Government to begin level crossing safety trial

Qld Government to begin level crossing safety trial
By Chris O'Brien

The Queensland Government is set to begin a $2 million trial of level crossing safety technology.

Solar-powered flashing lights will be installed at Gatton and Rosewood, west of Brisbane, to warn motorists about trains from a distance.

At the same time, broadcast technology will alert drivers with break-in radio announcements at Dalby on the western Darling Downs, and at two locations in Townsville and Charters Towers in north Queensland.

Transport Minister Scott Emerson has told the ABC the tests were delayed from last year to the middle of this year.

"We wanted to make sure we did this right and that's why we put extra money into it as well because I think this is a very important area," he said.

"We wanted to make sure that the trials do proceed in a thorough way and we get the best result.

"We'll then evaluate the results of those trials and then select one of those technologies if they work to start to roll that out ... across all the level crossings across Queensland."

[ozbob]

Queensland Times --> New safety system to be trialled at rail level crossings

[ozbob]

Train crossing 'idiots' pay up

--> http://media.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/selections/train-crossing-idiots-pay-up-4157286.html

[ozbob]

Minister for Transport and Main Roads
The Honourable Scott Emerson

$1 million boost for train trial

The Newman Government has boosted its commitment to improving safety at rail level crossings with an additional $1 million injected into technology trials.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said new radio and solar-powered technology would be trialled across five sites in Queensland by mid-2013.

"This additional boost in funds will let us trial all three rail crossing technologies," Mr Emerson said.

"The three separate types of technology will be trialled at open level crossings located near Gatton, Rosewood, Dalby and between Townsville and Charters Towers.

"The solar-powered lighting system to be trialled near Gatton and Rosewood will warn motorists of approaching trains by activating flashing lights.

"At the other sites, there will be two different radio break-in systems trialled.

"One system wirelessly detects the presence of trains and alerts the driver through an announcement via the radio as well as a visual warning while the other system provides an auditory warning only.

"These technologies have the ability to actively alert motorists to the presence of oncoming trains at level crossings and potentially reduce the risk of collisions.

"These sites are on top of a trial already undertaken near Ingham that tested valet in-road lights that turn on as a train approaches.

"As we have seen a number of times this year already, a level crossing collision could cause service disruptions, property damage, injuries and in the most tragic cases, fatalities.

"We hope these trials will help determine what systems are most effective in eliminating collisions, reducing the number of near-misses and minimising the impact of all incidents which occur.

"We still need motorists and pedestrians to do their part and obey the signs and signals to avoid any accidents."

In 2012, there were 400 reported near misses on the Queensland Rail network, 223 of which occurred in south east Queensland and 177 of which occurred in regional Queensland

Railnet Safety Systems, La Trobe University and NFA Innovations were shortlisted in September and have been successfully awarded the contracts.

[ENDS] 3 April 2013

[Derwan]

Telegraph Rd Level Crossing replacement out to tender:

https://www.evalua.com.au/etb/bcc/ExternalTenderDetails.htm?id=507620

[ozbob]

From the Southern Star 10th April 2013 page 5

Proposed overpass stalls

Proposed overpass stalls

NO ACTION: COUNCILLOR RALLIES PUSH FOR FUNDING ON RAIL CROSSING
MELISSA ARCHER

IT HAS been named one of Queensland's worst level rail crossings, but commuters are still waiting for the long-promised overpass at Boundary Rd, Coopers Plains.

Tracksafe Foundation ranked the Boundary Rd and Orange Grove Rd intersection as the fifth worst level crossing in the state.

Now Councillor Steve Griffiths (Moorooka) has started a petition calling on Brisbane City Council to fund the project. Cr Griffiths said he wants to see action on the project and is calling on concerned residents to get behind the push for funding. behind the push for funding.

"This is one of Queensland's most dangerous level rail crossings - it was named by the RACQ in their top three worst crossings, and yet there has been no funding commitments for an upgrade or an overpass," he said.

"Campbell Newman promised two rail crossing upgrades for the northside at the last state election, but nothing for the southside which is where they are urgently needed.

"Acacia Ridge and Archerfield have been re-zoned to allow for intense industry development, and Coopers development, and Coopers Plains has been identified by Brisbane City Council as a high growth area with increased density and multistorey development.

"Despite this, there's been absolutely no planning for infrastructure, I want to know what both levels of government are doing about it."

State Member for Sunnybank Mark Stewart said he hoped the jointlyfunded project would be included in the yet-to-be released Queensland Plan.

[somebody]

Here's tracksafe's list: http://www.tracksafefoundation.com.au/userfiles/file/13-03-26%20Train-drivers-top-ten-list(1).pdf

Not sure it's been posted.

[ozbob]

http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2013/4/16/not-everyone-makes-it-across-the-tracks

Media Statements
Minister for Transport and Main Roads
The Honourable Scott Emerson
Tuesday, April 16, 2013

Not everyone makes it across the tracks

The Newman Government has launched a confronting new safety campaign, warning that people who illegally cross train tracks face serious injury or death.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said the campaign, titled Coffins, had a blunt message.

"Our message is simple but we need to get it through to people – not everyone makes it across the tracks," Mr Emerson said.

"Anyone who thinks it is okay to take a quick shortcut across the tracks is sadly mistaken because they are not only risking their lives, but also the lives of staff and passengers.

"To drive the message home, Queensland Rail will be displaying a coffin made out of railway sleepers at Central Station.

"While this message is shocking, we make no apologies for this confronting campaign.

"It's not just people vandalising or taking a shortcut across train tracks. The rail corridor is not a park or walking track, yet we have many reports of people riding motorbikes, walking dogs and even taking wedding photos inside the rail corridor.

"We have passenger and freight trains on the network which can move at speeds up to 160 kilometres an hour, and they can't swerve to avoid someone."

Mr Emerson said last year there were 400 reported near misses at railway crossings including 157 pedestrians who were nearly hit by trains.

There were almost 5,500 reported trespass and track crossing incidents on the Queensland Rail network last year, comprising 5,133 in south east Queensland and 363 in regional areas.

"Alarmingly, this means last year there were more than 100 separate cases of trespass each week," Mr Emerson said. 

"We encourage everyone to stay safe near railway crossings and not gamble with their lives by playing Russian roulette with trains."

The coffin is currently on display at Central station.

[red dragin]

I rarely get caught at the Alderley crossing, but every time I have noticed people are waiting until the lights go out before proceeding through. Was the same at Carseldine (twice) Saturday night.

Part of the message seems to be getting through at least.

[HappyTrainGuy]

Speaking to a mate today all properties at Geebung that have been resumed for the level crossing have been vacated. Only a couple houses and the flats remain. The stations parking on the western side will be going soon as that will make way for the new road. After the new road has been completed work the existing section of Robinson Road will be ripped up and work would then start on building the overpass. All the properties on the southern side of Robinson Road have had the buildings demolished, fencing removed, landscaping works going through and the land now fenced off along the footpath with the steel mesh fencing on both sides. Properties on the eastern side were cleared out ages ago and the area has been cleared ready for construction.

[ozbob]

Twitter

Queensland Rail ‏@QueenslandRail 3m

Last year, 355 people copped $220 on-the-spot fines for breaking the law at railway crossings. See more via Ch10: http://ow.ly/kaN6q

[ozbob]

Twitter

Transport Safety Vic ‏@TSVsafety 34m

7 May is International Level Crossing Awareness Day in 42 countries & message is "Act safely at level crossings" http://ow.ly/kJuaL

[ozbob]

Some sort of media event today for the Geebung Overpass  Robinson Road Open Level Crossing Replacement Project.

[HappyTrainGuy]

Work is starting I assume. Last time I went past all the houses were demolished, plants/trees removed, fencing up, park closed off, ground cleared etc.

[ozbob]

Minister for Transport and Main Roads
The Honourable Scott Emerson

Early works kick-off on Robinson Road Open Level Crossing Project

Lord Mayor Graham Quirk was joined by the Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Scott Emerson today for the start of early works on the $199 million Robinson Road open level crossing project, ensuring the upgrade remains on track to remove the notorious rail crossing by late 2014.

The Lord Mayor said the beginning of early works included building removals, service relocations and site preparations.

"The upgrade will provide significant safety improvements following numerous near misses involving pedestrians and trains, as well as three tragic fatalities at Geebung since 1992," he said.

"It will also remove a significant bottleneck between Gympie and Sandgate Roads, with delays of up to 15 minutes recorded at peak times.

"This financial year we are investing $1.4 billion toward tackling traffic congestion, which includes funding for this project and the Telegraph Road open level crossing replacement project."

Mr Emerson welcomed the start of early works bringing us a step closer to delivering on our election commitment to improve safety at this notorious level crossing.

"We are on track to have this upgrade completed by late 2014 – which is an ambitious but achievable target," he said.

"The project will deliver a safer and more efficient road and rail network by the construction of an overpass over the rail line, connecting Robinson Road West and Robinson Road East, with new signalised intersections.

"It will also improve street access to residents on Bassano Street and Robinson Road West, provide a new pedestrian overpass over the railway line and better connect businesses on Robinson Road East."

"The early works include the temporary realignment of Robinson Road West."

Feedback from the community during previous consultation in 2007 and 2008 indicated close to 70% of respondents preferred the option that has now been developed into the current design for the project which was released earlier this year.

Major construction for the project is scheduled to commence in the coming months.

Geebung's industrial precinct and retail centre will remain open and access to Geebung Railway Station will also be maintained throughout construction.

[ENDS] 8 May 2013

[HappyTrainGuy]

Drove past. They have removed the massive sound barriers (the cement foundations were as long as the posts were above the ground), they were digging out the creek there to add additional drainage pipes, they have marked out where the road will be and started works of raising the ground to the current road height.

[HappyTrainGuy]

New designs for the Geebung Level crossing. Hopefully a decent bus interchange can be provided for those going outbound. The project should be completed by late 2014.

Old One:


New one:


The gas pipeline relocation and meters for the Telegraph road overpass seems to have wrapped up. Landscaping clearing works are being undertaken now so hopefully that'll be up and running soon like Geebung. One problem I can see coming from a mile away is the Gympie Arterial Road overpass. That seriously has to be addressed otherwise the whole area will become an instant choke point with northbound traffic wanting to get onto the Gympie Arterial road blocking access from those going straight (towards Bunnings and those going towards the level crossing). The single lane bridge each way should really be 2 lanes as traffic wanting to get onto the arterial road really clogs up the area. Who knows. There might even be a new exit onto Telegraph road feeding into the new intersection to reduce the bottleneck at the arterial road overpass.

[somebody]

Francis Rd overpass is proceeding too: http://www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/overpass/

Not sure if that's been posted before.

Once that's done, I can't see why you couldn't close Todd Rd, South Pine Rd (except perhaps too much traffic for Kremzow Rd) and Bilsen Rd leaving only Beams Rd and Northgate Rd between Northgate and Petrie.

[HappyTrainGuy]

For starters common sense will tell you not to close the South Pine Road level crossing. No way in hell could Kremzow Road cope with the increased traffic as it already struggles now and thats with the level crossing open. There is also no merge onto Gympie Road as you have to wait for the light cycle to be able to when the level crossing has 3 merge roads. That is then flawed again as IIRC that overpass isn't wide enough to throw more tracks underneath so its days are already numbered. The most logical thing would to use the MBRC plans for its Strathpine redevlopmentupgrade (proper TOD, proper bus/rail interchange options, better access for locals, commercial/retail areas, relocating MBRC resources to one area after the councils were merged etc).



Francis Road should be open in a couple months. The intersection on Gympie Road is now operational IIRC or they were testing them when I drove past not too long ago with most of the remaining work being completed on the Warner side. Morayfield started its second overpass a couple months back. There will be some trackclosures in the future because of it. Boundry Road overpass between Dakabin and Narangba reopened last year. Beams Road was to be replaced with a bridge as part of the State Government redeveloping the area but who knows whats going to happen now since they once again gave something big back to the BCC. Todds road still does get alot of traffic because of the nearby schools and shopping areas. Its still a level crossing but I don't expect to see it closed until the Petrie-Strathpine quad goes through or at the minimum after the Petrie to Lawnton + MBRL works are done.

[somebody]

LX removal talked about in 1939!

http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/62811155

[HappyTrainGuy]

In 1939 most of the level crossings weren't in a metropolitian area

[somebody]

In 1939 most of the level crossings weren't in a metropolitian area

They still aren't!

It did say "Brisbane" at the start of the article.  So one would understand it to be referring to what was the metro area at the time.

[DayboroStation]

The Francis Road overpass is open now. Not much traffic using it yet. There was an "official" opening a 2-3 weeks ago, but the road only opened to traffic last week. I believe there are no short-term plans to close the Todds Road level crossing at this stage.

As of a few weeks ago, the Boundary Road, Narangba, overpass is open, but to one lane only (westbound). Not sure why it's not open to two lanes... Traffic wishing to travel east have to detour at Alma Road (under the railway line), or continue on to the level crossing at Narangba Station.

[somebody]

There's always been an overpass at Boundary Rd, Narangba.  Perhaps it was closed for a while.

[petey3801]

There's always been an overpass at Boundary Rd, Narangba.  Perhaps it was closed for a while.

Yeah, they had it closed for some time while they replaced it.

I notice there are still a number of temporary baricades around the bridge which is only allowing one way traffic, will be interesting whether they decide to make it two way again or not!

[HappyTrainGuy]

The Francis Road overpass is open now. Not much traffic using it yet. There was an "official" opening a 2-3 weeks ago, but the road only opened to traffic last week

Hmmm. Might have to check it out after work sometime. Its certainly looks like one hell of a climb to cross the railway line haha.

As of a few weeks ago, the Boundary Road, Narangba, overpass is open, but to one lane only (westbound). Not sure why it's not open to two lanes... Traffic wishing to travel east have to detour at Alma Road (under the railway line), or continue on to the level crossing at Narangba Station.

You're only about 6 months off It actually reopened around December 15th last year. The new decking went down during a track closure on December 1-2 with it reopening a short time after that.

@Simon, the overpass was closed due to the age of the wooden bridge and safety concerns. A weight and speed limit was placed on it before the Courier Mail kicked up a stink about how much traffic controllers were costing QR and the taxpayer that were stationed there (Chosing to ignore the multiple traffic controllers that were stationed at the Stafford, Lutyche and Albion portal exits despite the availability traffic lights on the Northern Busway - I even pointed that out on here about where the usual CM priorities were). It was eventually closed until QR had the funding to build a new deck to replace it and schedulle it in with the existing track closures during the closures for the of the Francis Road overpass and the Morayfield overpass upgrade.

Took about 4 months as the decking was partially built off site and then transported there for instillation.

[ozbob]

Fraser Coast Chronicle --> Man fined $800 after car was smashed by train

[somebody]

Lucky he got off so easy.

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> Train driver to be cleared of fault in Banyo crash

[ozbob]

Couriermail --> Report blames truck driver for near fatal Banyo train crash

[ozbob]

http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2013/6/21/permit-process-focus-of-banyo-crash

Minister for Transport and Main Roads
The Honourable Scott Emerson

Permit process focus of Banyo crash

The heavy vehicle permit process will be promoted to industry after a crash at Banyo identified the truck driver didn't have correct approvals for the route being taken.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said the final report into a train and truck crash at Banyo station in September last year made eight recommendations.

"The investigation showed the truck driver's heavy vehicle permit didn't allow the use of St Vincents Rd level crossing," Mr Emerson said.

"In the short term we want to see better coordination between state and local governments when issuing permits.

"Responsibility for issuing heavy vehicle permits will shift to the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator later this year as part of a national move toward uniform regulations."

Mr Emerson said lessons need to be learnt from the crash, which could have easily ended in tragedy.

"The report identified the train driver involved in the collision followed correct procedures however there was a delay in passing on the truck's location before the crash," he said.

"Queensland Rail has conducted a complete review of emergency communication protocols with additional training for staff underway."

The regulator also said:

·         The gradient of St Vincents Road was steeper than the current Austroads guidelines.

·         A review of psychometric and monitoring processes for all train crew should be undertaken.

"The number of safety incidents across the network has dropped by 10 per cent during our first year in office, however we must remain vigilant when it comes to level crossing safety," he said.

"While I am thankful this incident was not more serious it reinforces the importance of promoting the safe use of our roads and rail network – particularly at open level crossings."

[ENDS] 21 June 2013

[Old Northern Road]

Did anyone see the report about this on Channel 9? They made it sound like it was 100% QR's fault. They didn't even mention that the truck driver didn't have a permit to use the level crossing. They also mentioned that the train driver wasn't watching where he was going and that he suffered from some form of blindness.

[minbrisbane]

The TV always either blames the railway, or the government - for not making it safe enough bla bla

[Otto]

Did anyone see the report about this on Channel 9? They made it sound like it was 100% QR's fault. They didn't even mention that the truck driver didn't have a permit to use the level crossing. They also mentioned that the train driver wasn't watching where he was going and that he suffered from some form of blindness.

Same was said on 4BC by Gary Hardgrave.. 

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

22 June 2013

Balance and objectivity missing in Brisbane Media

Greetings,

Yesterday, the Minister for Transport released a statement, below:

Most of the reporting yesterday on the Banyo Crash glossed over the fact the truck attempted to cross an unsafe crossing (with out proper permit), and rather gave the impression that the situation was the railways fault.
[ http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=2391.msg128166#msg128166 ]

Honestly,  your mediocre reporting is becoming embarrassing, and  if the hat fits wear it.  It is little wonder that much of the media is becoming increasingly irrelevant to many.

Two bridge strikes yesterday, with more disruption to the network.  Truck cowboys seem to be unaccountable, try travelling on the Ipswich truck speedway (highway) to see reality.

All we ask is balance.  I thought that was journalism 101.

Best wishes
Robert

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org


http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2013/6/21/permit-process-focus-of-banyo-crash

Minister for Transport and Main Roads
The Honourable Scott Emerson

Permit process focus of Banyo crash

The heavy vehicle permit process will be promoted to industry after a crash at Banyo identified the truck driver didn't have correct approvals for the route being taken.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said the final report into a train and truck crash at Banyo station in September last year made eight recommendations.

"The investigation showed the truck driver's heavy vehicle permit didn't allow the use of St Vincents Rd level crossing," Mr Emerson said.

"In the short term we want to see better coordination between state and local governments when issuing permits.

"Responsibility for issuing heavy vehicle permits will shift to the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator later this year as part of a national move toward uniform regulations."

Mr Emerson said lessons need to be learnt from the crash, which could have easily ended in tragedy.

"The report identified the train driver involved in the collision followed correct procedures however there was a delay in passing on the truck's location before the crash," he said.

"Queensland Rail has conducted a complete review of emergency communication protocols with additional training for staff underway."

The regulator also said:

·         The gradient of St Vincents Road was steeper than the current Austroads guidelines.

·         A review of psychometric and monitoring processes for all train crew should be undertaken.

"The number of safety incidents across the network has dropped by 10 per cent during our first year in office, however we must remain vigilant when it comes to level crossing safety," he said.

"While I am thankful this incident was not more serious it reinforces the importance of promoting the safe use of our roads and rail network – particularly at open level crossings."

[ENDS] 21 June 2013

[ozbob]

Did anyone see the report about this on Channel 9? They made it sound like it was 100% QR's fault. They didn't even mention that the truck driver didn't have a permit to use the level crossing. They also mentioned that the train driver wasn't watching where he was going and that he suffered from some form of blindness.

Yes, I managed to see that.  Completely without balance I agree ...

[#Metro]

How is is the railway's fault? Trains run on tracks - they are STUCK to the rail. The boom gates were down.
It was an accident and probably not obvious that a permit was required. The grade of the crossing was also a factor as it caused the truck to become wedged with the ground.

Every crossing should have a phone number and code to call like signal boxes have if they have a fault. Or a duress button to press in an emergency that would send the alarms off at network control.

Inattentional blindness is not a physical blindness. It is when you focus on something that everything else isn't obvious. Happens when driving cars too.

[ozbob]

News 4BC / 4BH ran an item on the Banyo crash early this morning that was balanced, and a lot more in line with actuality than some of the efforts in the media yesterday ...

[HappyTrainGuy]

@LP, they already do. Same with railway bridges. They usually have a yellow sign with black writing/borders. There is small writing for details like if this bridge is struck call etc and the phone numbers and the bridge code/level crossing codes are in big bold writing which draws your attention to it. If you go along the busway SB-CC you can see the signs on the red walls under the train bridge. All staff are also issued with contact cards with important numbers to call in case of an emergency.

What I want to know is the info and timelines regarding the drivers radio coms and train location for the SMU heading inbound.

[ozbob]

From the Queensland Times 27th July 2013 page 16

Notice

Ballast trains will be running to Blackstone from this Monday (29th July 2013).  This means level crossings in the area will have trains passing through them at times.