UTC approves $73,000 rail safety grant for Puyallup fencing project

Media contact: 360-664-1116 or [email protected]
Docket number: TR-240834

LACEY, Wash. - The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) has approved a $73,000 Grade Crossing Protective Fund (GCPF) grant to enhance pedestrian safety in Puyallup.

The City of Puyallup will use the funds to install approximately 678 linear feet of 6-foot-tall, 5/8-inch gauge mesh security fencing along the BNSF Railway right-of-way at 15th Street NW, 17th Street NW, and 19th Street NW. The fencing will reduce trespassing a

nd help guide pedestrians toward public, signalized railroad crossings.

The BNSF line through Puyallup has experienced multiple trespass-related fatalities and near-misses in recent years. By preventing unauthorized access to the tracks, the fencing is expected to improve public safety significantly.

Following a fatal incident on the line, UTC Rail Safety staff informed the City of Puyallup about the availability of GCPF funds for trespass prevention projects. The UTC has supported similar initiatives to improve safety at railroad crossings and along rail lines across Washington.

The GCPF program was established by the Legislature in 1969 to fund safety measures that reduce accidents and fatalities at public and private railroad crossings and along tracks.

The UTC regulates railroad safety, including approving new rail crossings and closing or altering existing crossings, investigating train accidents, inspecting railroad crossings, approving safety projects, and promoting rail safety education through Operation Lifesaver.

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