On the Right Track: Baytown Pushes for Rail Solutions

Jason Calder, City of Baytown

Baytown is a city that moves. From thriving industrial partners to families commuting to school and work, our community depends on clear roads and open crossings. However, many of us have experienced the frustration of waiting at a blocked railroad crossing. Trains can stop for long stretches, cutting off access to neighborhoods, businesses, and sometimes even emergency vehicles.

We are listening. This issue remains one of our top priorities, and City leaders are advocating at every level to find relief for residents.

A Challenge Decades in the Making

Baytown’s rail lines were here long before many of our neighborhoods and industries. These tracks remain critical for moving goods that fuel global industry and strengthen our local and national economy. But as train traffic grows, so do the challenges. Cities like Baytown have very limited authority to demand action on rail operations, but that’s not stopping us from pushing back.

Bringing Union Pacific to the Table

Baytown officials meet regularly with Union Pacific leadership to discuss blocked crossings, safety issues, and other community concerns. What began as a difficult conversation has evolved into an ongoing partnership. Union Pacific now keeps a list of Baytown’s Top 10 “hot spots” posted in their dispatch center to help crews stay aware of problem areas.

Teamwork at Every Level

The City continues to raise awareness of these issues with state and federal partners. Councilman Jacob Powell is meeting with Union Pacific leadership to provide a firsthand look at trouble spots across Baytown. Councilwoman Laura Alvarado recently hosted a meeting with TxDOT, Senator Carol Alvarado’s office, and City representatives to explore new state funding opportunities for grade separations. These projects separate roads and rail lines to prevent crossing blockages. It is a long and competitive process, but we will keep fighting and working for solutions.

What You Can Do

Residents can help by reporting blocked crossings in these ways:

• Better Baytown App or baytown.org: Report blocked crossings and include as much detail as possible, such as photos and location information. Each report helps us track the growing number of incidents and ensures Union Pacific leadership understands the real impact on our community.
• Union Pacific’s Response Management Communications Center (UPRMCC): Contact the UPRMCC, staffed by a live representative, at 888-877-7267 or 800-848-8715. When reporting, include the crossing identification number that is found on the blue sign near the crossing gates. Also, include the nearby cross streets.
• Blocked Crossing Incident Reporter: Use the Federal Railroad Administration’s online tool to submit an issue.

Baytown can’t fix this alone. But together, we can make sure our voice stays strong, our message stays clear, and our community stays moving on the right track.