East of Vancouver 2 main tracks ends at the station of McLoughlin. East of there single track is in effect up the gorge to Pasco. In the last mile of 2 main tracks are two grade crossing which prevent eastbound trains from pulling up to the signal at McLoughlin unless they are less than .4 of a mile long. Since most trains around here are much longer that means holding back of both crossings to wait for anything coming west. Operationally the Vancouver terminal dispatcher will usually warn trains so they don’t get into a situation where the crossings are blocked.
Last weekend an empty grain train left town and was told to hold up for 4 west bounds at Wintler Rd. While that may sound ominous when there is that many trains they are usually back to back. Still the train crew found it a good opportunity to get out and check things out. While one crew member was inspecting the passing train the other worked on fuel readings for all the power.
I’ve often wondered why the city of Vancouver and BNSF haven’t partnered to close this crossing. The road that crosses from the south side to the north side could easily (easy from a non civil engineer point of view) be connected with the road used to access the condos located near this crossing. From what I can tell only a few hundred feel of road would need to be constructed to connect Columbia Way and Beach Dr. Take a look at the aerial image below. Seems pretty simple doesn’t it?
I’m sure there are other factors controlling this like property ownership, budget dollars, and necessity. That’s why its not done. Still I think it is a perfect mix of operational improvement for the railroad and road simplification for the city.
What about the other crossing? Chealsea Ave. doesn’t have a convenient road alternative available. Also trains can see the signal at McLoughlin from the crossing while still being clear of Eavan behind so operationally closing it isn’t a big benefit for the railroad.
So for the time being east bounds will continue to get instructions on what to do at Wintler Rd. which ends up being a great tool for railfans…especially when there are 4 west bounds!
