3. Proposed Crossing Construction

The application before us seeks Commission approval for construction of an at-grade crossing of light rail transit tracks across Hamilton Avenue in the City of Campbell. In its diagnostic review of the proposal, Staff reported that 70,000 vehicles per day pass through the proposed Hamilton Avenue crossing and that light rail vehicles would use the crossing 200 times a day. The crossing also is used by Union Pacific Railroad freight trains, which make three roundtrips per week. Staff noted that the proposed crossing is near a highway off-ramp, and that visibility of southbound trains approaching the intersection is obstructed by buildings around the tracks.

Because of the heavy traffic and limited visibility at the crossing, and because of the planned frequency of light rail operations, Staff concluded that VTA's proposal for an at-grade crossing presented a high risk of injury to motorists, pedestrians and transit passengers. Staff recommended that the transit agency construct its tracks to cross over or beneath Hamilton Avenue. At hearing, Senior Utilities Engineer Jesus Escamilla testified that VTA resisted the Staff recommendation because of cost. However, he said, it is his understanding that VTA now has decided to do an aerial crossing of the roadway, but it has not amended its application nor has it requested Commission review and approval of aerial crossing plans.