During a recent government meeting, officials discussed urgent safety improvements needed at the problematic rail crossing on Cedar Springs Road, particularly in relation to the Columbia Ridge Landfill operations. The meeting highlighted four immediate steps proposed to enhance safety for drivers navigating the area.

Firstly, it was suggested that the existing yellow flashing light warning on the southbound approach be relocated further north. This adjustment aims to provide drivers with a more visible warning and a safer distance to stop when the signals are down.

Secondly, the proposal includes installing a similar flashing light warning south of the middle crossing on Cedar Springs Road. Currently, there is no warning in that area, which poses a risk for northbound traffic. The new warning would ensure that drivers have adequate stopping distance, mirroring the safety measures in place for southbound traffic.

The third recommendation involves addressing visibility issues caused by equipment and offloaded railcars located on the northeast side of Cedar Springs Road. The proposal suggests either repositioning this equipment or cutting down a bluff to improve sightlines for drivers approaching the crossing. This change would allow for earlier detection of crossing signals, reducing the risk of last-minute stops, especially for larger vehicles.

Lastly, the meeting addressed the need for operational changes regarding the crossing gates. It was proposed that engineers be allowed to raise the gates once the train or railcars have crossed into the yard by approximately 25 feet. This adjustment would alleviate the lengthy wait times for traffic on Cedar Springs Road, which often experiences delays due to train operations.

These proposed measures aim to enhance safety and efficiency for both local traffic and the operations of Columbia Ridge Landfill, addressing concerns raised by community members and stakeholders.