Design & Safety Considerations

The project has undergone rigorous railroad review through BNSF-led diagnostics involving the City, consultants, WYDOT, Union Pacific Railroad, and other stakeholders. The diagnostics process identified both immediate safety actions and longer-term design considerations.

Immediate Safety Actions Identified

  • Updated pavement markings and stop bars
  • Replacement and removal of outdated signage
  • Installation of additional “No Parking” and truck restriction signage
  • Removal of signage encouraging unauthorized use of railroad right-of-way

30% Design Overview

The 30% design proposes a grade-separated, fenced rail corridor with enhanced pedestrian safety and reduced vehicular conflict, including:

  • Pedestrian promenade on the east side of the corridor
  • Dedicated BNSF maintenance access road on the west side
  • Steel fencing on both sides of the tracks
  • Pedestrian tunnel under Lincoln Way
  • Full closure of 17th Street, 18th Street, 21st Street, and Dillon Avenue crossings
  • Signal and crossing upgrades at remaining crossings (19th–23rd Streets)
  • Relocation of signal bungalows to the west side of the tracks

Available Funding Status (January 2026)

Funding SourceAmount

Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Grant

  • Funds crossing eliminations
$3.41M

2017 6th Penny 

  • Funding for design and some construction
$2.21M
Total$5.62