Allen Avenue crossing to close

Buck Wargo

CITY HALL -- A railroad crossing at Allen Avenue considered dangerous

will close for good on Thursday.

Glendale will install concrete barricades and fencing to prevent

vehicles and pedestrians from crossing.

It is the second railroad crossing closed because of dangers to

drivers and pedestrians. In October, the Metrolink crossing on Bekins Way

at San Fernando Road was closed after an accident.

Glendale has had problems with vehicles, especially trucks, getting

struck by trains.

The Allen Avenue crossing does not meet federal railroad crossing

standards. The Glendale City Council approved its closure in July.

A crossing will also be closed on Doran Street just inside the Los

Angeles border.

City officials said the closure will not affect Beeline bus routes No.

7 and 12 that serve the area.

Drivers and pedestrians can use Alameda Street and Western Avenue as

alternative routes. The closures are not expected to hamper emergency

vehicles.

Future plans are being developed to enhance the closure such as

roadway and lighting improvements.

Caltrans plans on extending Fairmont Avenue over the top of the

railroad tracks as part of freeway ramp improvements during the next two

years.