XV. Railroad and Light-Rail Transit Crossings

Rule 38(a), as currently written, requires applicants to construct a railroad crossing to provide a legal description of the proposed crossing. We propose to modify the rule to permit applicants to provide, in lieu of a legal description, a location description using a coordinate system that has the accuracy comparable to a legal description. This will provide a less costly means for applicants to provide the necessary information to the Commission.

Rule 38(e), as currently written, requires applicants to provide a statement of the recommended signs, signals, or other protections for the proposed crossing. We propose amendments to clarify that this requirement refers to crossing warning devices, and only applies to applications to construct proposed crossings that are at grade. Likewise, we propose to amend Rule 38(c) to indicate that its requirement only applies to applications to construct crossings that are at grade.

Rule 38(f) requires applicants to provide a map showing the locations of nearby streets, roads, property lines, tracks, buildings, structures and other obstructions. We propose to add the requirement that, if the proposed crossing is grade-separated, the map include the vertical and horizontal clearances from the rail tracks to bridge structures. This is necessary information for the Commission's consideration of such applications.

Rules 38(b) and 39, as currently written, refer to "crossing numbers." We propose to amend this to refer to "crossing identification numbers," which more accurately describes the required information.

We propose a new rule to reflect the Commission's General Order 143-B, Section 9.08. Section 9.08 requires Commission authorization for all crossings or intersections of a public road, street, highway or railroad and a light-rail transit system subject to the Commission's jurisdiction under Pub. Util. Code §§ 778 and 99152. The proposed rule sets forth the requirements for applications for such authority.