Funding for Railroad Safety in Arizona

Yuma, Arizona – Funds are on the way to Arizona aimed at enhancing railroad intersections and boosting safety measures.

Railroads have been vital for transporting goods in Arizona since the late 19th century, but many need improvements.

The total of $46 million, provided through a bipartisan infrastructure law, will be utilized to assess and upgrade railroad intersections statewide.

This funding will specifically target improvements or the removal of rail intersections in various areas, including Yuma County, Hualapai lands, Gilbert, and Marana.

Local officials, including Yuma City and Dave Nash, noted that these resources will aid county leaders in determining the most effective approaches for rail intersections.

In Yuma County, three intersections will undergo inspection: at Avenue 9E, Fortuna Road, and Wellton.

More than $600,000 from the grant will be allocated to these initiatives.

The study aims to identify necessary upgrades, which could include options like overpasses for railway tracks, similar to what’s planned for Pacific Avenue.

Authorities are also exploring ways to alleviate congestion. The railroad crossings on Yuma’s 9E are known for causing significant traffic delays.

“The areas we’re looking at are on very busy roads,” Nash mentioned.

“Efforts to enhance public safety will also help reduce disruptions to the flow of goods.”

U.S. Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) emphasized that secure and efficient transportation is crucial for the state’s economy.

“This funding to upgrade outdated rail intersections will safeguard drivers, streamline the movement of goods and people, create jobs, and facilitate a safer, more reliable transportation system for everyone,” Kelly stated in a news release.