Design of Dynamic Train Crossing Estimation and Real-Time Traffic Control Systems for Grade Crossing Safety

This research project aims to enhance safety and traffic flow efficiency at rail grade crossings by developing a real-time traffic operation control system that dynamically coordinates traffic signals with train movements. A key innovation is the design of dynamically updated train crossing windows for all at-grade crossings within a region. By leveraging available real-time train tracking data, including location, speed, and projected arrival times at crossings, the system will continuously predict and update crossing windows. These predictions will be integrated into adaptive traffic signal control algorithms, ensuring efficient vehicle movement while reducing delays and potential conflicts at crossings. The proposed system will consist of three core components: (1) a real-time train movement prediction model using the Global Positioning System (GPS), trackside sensors, and historical train operation data; (2) a dynamic train crossing window estimation module that calculates and updates available crossing opportunities for all grade crossings in the region based on evolving train movement data; and (3) an intelligent traffic signal coordination system that adjusts traffic lights in real time to optimize vehicle throughput while ensuring safety at rail crossings. This approach will minimize unnecessary traffic stops, reduce congestion, and improve safety by providing a network-wide, adaptive traffic management solution. The findings of this research will contribute to the advancement of intelligent transportation systems, offering practical applications for traffic agencies and rail operators in improving grade crossing safety and efficiency.

• Record URL:
  • https://www.utrgv.edu/railwaysafety/research/operations/index.htm

Language

• English

Project

• Status: Active
• Funding: $86,516.00
• Contract Numbers:

  69A3552348340

• Sponsor Organizations:

  Office of the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology

  University Transportation Centers Program
  Department of Transportation
  Washington, DC  United States  20590

  University of South Carolina, Columbia

  502 Byrnes Building
  Columbia, SC  United States  29208
• Managing Organizations:

  University of South Carolina, Columbia

  502 Byrnes Building
  Columbia, SC  United States  29208
• Project Managers:

  Stearns, Amy

• Performing Organizations:

  University of South Carolina, Columbia

  502 Byrnes Building
  Columbia, SC  United States  29208
• Principal Investigators:

  Chen, Yuche

  Qian, Yu

  Rizos, Dimitris

• Start Date: 20250601
• Expected Completion Date: 20260831
• Actual Completion Date: 0
• USDOT Program: University Transportation Centers Program

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Predictive models; Railroad grade crossings; Railroad safety; System design; Traffic flow; Traffic signal priority
• Subject Areas: Design; Highways; Railroads; Safety and Human Factors;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01960675
• Record Type: Research project
• Source Agency: University Transportation Center for Railway Safety
• Contract Numbers: 69A3552348340
• Files: UTC, RIP
• Created Date: Jul 14 2025 7:15PM