Commissioners back resolution to support TxDOT railroad‑approach safety projects

Randall County Commissioners Court voted unanimously May 13 to approve a resolution authorizing an advance funding agreement with the Texas Department of Transportation so TxDOT can include county railroad approaches in a statewide railroad crossing safety project.

County staff described the initiative as part of a larger District 4 effort across the Texas Panhandle to improve safety at rail crossings. The work may include new striping, rumble strips, signage, pavement emblems and, at a few locations, lighting. "They're gonna do new scribe and maybe rumble strips, new signage, maybe the railroad track emblem burnt down into the road … trying to make the railroad crossings safer," a county official said.

Why it matters: Randall County has numerous at‑grade rail crossings; staff said TxDOT plans to include about 15 crossings in the county as part of the project. The county’s resolution supports TxDOT’s grant application and allows TxDOT to coordinate contracted work within county right‑of‑way when the agency awards projects with grant funds.

County commissioners asked about future maintenance obligations and schedule. Staff said most work will be within railroad right‑of‑way and that TxDOT anticipates assuming construction responsibility through the grant; routine maintenance questions would be addressed later. Staff said the project timeline targets a start in summer 2026.

The court voted 5–0 to authorize the resolution of support. The motion was made and seconded on the record; the vote was unanimous.

Next steps: With the court’s support, TxDOT can include the county crossings in its grant application and, if awarded, proceed with contracting. The county will coordinate details and any intergovernmental agreements as projects are scheduled.