Middletown to install flashing and static detour signs to warn drivers of blocked downtown rail crossings

Public Works Director Scott Tadish presented a wayfinding and alert plan Tuesday to reduce driver confusion and unsafe maneuvers when trains block downtown railroad crossings.

Tadish described a two-part system: flashing signs tied to traffic controllers that would activate when crossings are occupied, and static detour signs to guide drivers onto alternate routes. "We're estimating total cost of around $30,000 for everything," Tadish said, describing 30"x24" left-turn signs and larger flashing units roughly six feet high that would be mounted on poles.

The proposal targets crossings at First Avenue, Central Avenue and Manchester Avenue adjacent to downtown; the plan would route drivers onto Charles Street, Rinards and University where appropriate and use the Ryan Arts overpass to avoid blocked crossings when feasible. Tadish said the flashing units would connect to controllers and communicate via a cellular network.

Council members asked about other troublesome crossings on the south end (Oxford State/Yankee, Cohen/Woodlon) and about detour complexity; staff confirmed those crossings exist and said signage placement will aim to avoid sign clutter while giving drivers time to detour safely.

Tadish told council in-house crews would perform most of the installation and estimated roughly a month for completion after final approvals. Council gave staff direction to proceed with the plan and did not vote to authorize budget changes at this meeting.