FULLERTON : Agency OKs Bridge Over Railway Tracks

The city Redevelopment Agency has approved construction of a pedestrian bridge to connect the north and south platforms at Fullerton Station.

The project, approved 3 to 1 last week, is intended to reduce the danger to commuters and other travelers who have been crossing the railroad tracks. The $1.2-million bridge will include elevators and security cameras and is expected to complement the design of the historic station.

Mayor Chris Norby voted against the bridge proposal, saying he prefers a tunnel underpass because it would be less noticeable.

Agency members, who also sit on the City Council, said that although a tunnel would cost the same as a bridge, they objected to it because it would be more difficult to police and could lead to vandalism and vagrancy.

The agency also considered installing a $455,000 surface crossing that would include an electronic gate that would prevent people from crossing when trains are coming. But Santa Fe Railroad and Amtrak officials recommended against such a plan, saying it would not be as safe as a bridge or a tunnel.