Using Data and Corridorwide Strategies for Safer Rail Grade Crossings
HDR’s Sara Clark Shares How Planning, Technology and Collaboration are Reshaping Rail Crossing Safety
With little change in the number of highway-rail grade crossing incidents in recent years, transportation agencies are taking a new approach to safety. The latest from HDR’s Experts Talk interview series explores how data, technology, and corridor-level planning are helping communities improve safety across rail networks.
Sara Clark, P.E., a principal rail planning manager with 25 years of experience working with public agencies and railroads, focuses on helping clients move beyond isolated crossing improvements to coordinated strategies that reduce risk, improve operations and support long-term mobility.
In the interview, Clark explains how data and analytical tools are creating 3D models, helping teams identify potential risks, including locations where vehicles may become stuck on tracks, and address them before incidents occur. She also highlights how technology, such as signal preemption and traffic coordination systems, is improving traffic flow and limiting impacts of train-occupied crossings.
“While warning devices remain essential, they alone will not drive the next generation of rail safety performance,” Clark said. “Closing redundant or low traffic volume crossings while improving nearby locations can reduce conflict points, enhance safety, and improve both roadway and rail operations.”
Clark notes that crossing closures, grade separations and targeted upgrades are most effective when supported by strong collaboration. By aligning priorities early, agencies, railroads and communities can advance corridor-wide solutions that boost safety while improving mobility for drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists.
HDR’s Experts Talk interview series shines a light on various aspects of transportation infrastructure design and delivery. Each subject matter expert offers unique expertise and insights about new and ongoing trends, emerging technologies and the human side of infrastructure.
Read the full interview with Clark about advancing rail crossing safety through data-driven planning and engineering strategies.
About HDR
HDR is a 100% employee-owned professional services firm. Founded over a century ago to bring electricity to a changing world, we are now a global company specializing in architecture, engineering, environmental and construction services. Our success in built and natural environments continues as we collaborate to solve our clients’ and communities’ most complex challenges.
