A new proposal aims to give drivers advance warning when trains block crossings — a move city leaders say could improve safety and reduce delays.
SAN ANTONIO — If you’ve ever sat at a railroad crossing wondering how long a train will block your route, a new proposal at City Hall hopes to change that.
District 2 Councilmember Jalen McKee-Rodriguez has filed a Council Consideration Request calling for the development of a real-time railroad crossing notification system in San Antonio.
The idea would use technology to alert drivers — and even first responders — when trains are approaching, actively crossing, or stopped on the tracks. Notifications could potentially be integrated into popular navigation apps like Waze, Google Maps and Apple Maps.
“Too many residents find themselves stuck at railroad crossings without warning, forced into unsafe detours or late to work, school, and critical appointments,” McKee-Rodriguez said. “With today’s technology, we can do better. San Antonio has an opportunity to become a national leader by providing real-time railroad crossing information directly to drivers and first responders.”
San Antonio has dozens of at-grade rail crossings, many in historically underinvested neighborhoods, where long train stoppages can disrupt commutes, delay emergency response and increase crash risks.
The proposal asks city staff to explore partnerships with rail operators like Union Pacific, assess available technology such as sensors and GPS telemetry, and consider a pilot program in high-impact corridors. It also calls for examining funding sources and measuring outcomes like reduced delays and improved safety.
The request was co-signed by several councilmembers and is expected to head to a future Governance Committee meeting for discussion.
If approved, the system could give drivers something they rarely have at the tracks: a heads-up.