[quote=spdrun](1) Electrify the railroads.
(2) Build new lines in the medians of interstates when possible. Grade separation already exists.
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While potentially a good idea, one problem here is the center support for bridges. The medians also provide run-offs for errant cars. Other problems include standard bridges/overpasses are not rated for the higher loads imposed by trains.
[quote=spdrun]
(3) I think 80mph is legally possible for passenger trains with level crossings. In this situation, design the trains to accelerate as fast as possible to 80mph and the signaling system to keep them at max speed.
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They are currently capable of much more than 80mph. Higher accel would require much more horsepower – cause traction problems. There are signalling mechanisms that are better than current, but most rail is fighting requirements for them to be installed/standardized. See: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cab_signalling
Continous cab signalling on coded track circuits might be the best option. If ‘internet’ gets added to trains, could augment with second signal path of Transponder/Wireless.
[quote=spdrun]
(4) Or design “lethal” level crossing systems. Go around the gates, you’ll find a spike strip like the “severe tire damage” device in parking lots waiting once you’ve gone through the crossing. If going around level crossing gates costs people a set of tires and a tow, fewer people would do it.[/quote]
Need to make sure it is after last rail. Problem is two idiots going around, first idiot gets tires blown and stops in middle of road, causing second idiot to be trapped on track. (I can’t count the number of times I have come across idiots on the highways/transfer ramps who stop right in the middle of the road/lane when there is a problem instead of nursing the vehicle to the side – using momentum if need be). Maybe traffic cams that photog cars that go around the rail – tickets start at $1000 per offense and go up on repeat offenders.
