Bristow is making big changes to its railroad crossings, and here’s why: these updates are all about keeping our community safe and thriving. The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) provides clear guidelines to make highway-rail crossings safer, reducing the risk of accidents between trains and vehicles. Their 2015 Grade Crossing Resource Guide recommends better signs, lights, gates, and road surfaces, including concrete barriers at locations where roads and railroad tracks are at the same level to keep vehicles and people from entering the railway with an oncoming train.
The Initial plan was always to close the 5th Street crossing to secure a federal grant for upgrading the Industrial Road, 6th Street, and 10th Street crossings. This grant, part of the Railroad Crossing Elimination Program, which funds safer crossings but requires closing one to reduce risk. In later discussions, the city considered funding for three additional upgrades, which would have required closing the 8th Street crossing. The City Council hearing the concerns of businesses and citizens, reversed this decision on September 16, 2024, and chose to only close 5th Street, which has less impact on traffic and commerce and to not complete the additional upgrades.
Why these changes? Federal rules, like 49 CFR Part 234, ensure crossings have working lights, gates, and smooth surfaces to prevent accidents. Another rule, 49 CFR Part 222, helps manage train horns to keep safety first without extra noise, especially during sleeping hours. Bristow’s upgrades meet these standards, with new signals and repairs at Industrial Road, 6th Street, and 10th Street, funded by a $27 million state grant and the federal Section 130 Program. Work started August 1, 2025, and is moving fast to keep our roads safe.
These improvements aren’t just about rules, they’re about protecting community. Safer crossings mean a less chance for accident probability, protecting drivers and pedestrians. They also support Bristow’s Route 66 revitalization for the 2026 Centennial, making our town more welcoming for visitors and locals. The city learned from the 8th Street debate and welcomes questions or concerns at City Council meetings.
Watco manages the railroad in Bristow and can be contacted on an emergency line 24/7 at 1-866-479-2826