Ashland At-Grade Crossing Study
Ashland At-Grade Crossing Study
Introduction
The Town of Ashland is conducting an At-Grade Crossing Study to assess several at-grade railroad crossings that currently have limited safety features coupled with high exposure to frequent rail traffic. While these crossings serve as key access points for residents, businesses, and visitors alike, their current conditions present potential concerns for public safety and mobility.
This project aims to identify practical improvements that enhance safety, accessibility, and long-term functionality of the identified crossings listed below. As rail activity and community needs evolve, it’s important to explore improvements that reduce risk, support greater mobility, and align with the Town’s long-term planning goals.
Public input via a survey (see results below) was collected in January and February 2026. Feedback from that survey is available below and will be presented at a Public Open House on Wednesday, April 29th from 5:30-730 PM at Ashland Town Hall (121 Thompson St). Any and all who are interested are invited to attend any time during that timeframe. There is no formal presentation, but there will be opportunities to discuss with Town staff.
A full summary report and recommendations for improvements will be shared publicly in August-September 2026 on this site and Town communications channels.
Contact
For all questions related to this study, please contact:
Beth Mertz-Guinn
Town Engineer
eguinn@ashlandva.gov
(804) 752-6875
Overview
The following visuals showing potential alternatives were presented at the public open house on April 29th. See the document section in the sidebar to download high resolution pdfs of these files.
A summary report of input and recommendations will be shared later this fall.
The public input period for the online survey has concluded. Responses will remain visible for reference and ongoing community education.
This study focuses on seven at-grade crossings along CSX Transportation’s Richmond, Fredericksburg, and Potomac Rail Line, located between Vaughan Road/Henry Street and Ashcake Road within the Town of Ashland. The seven rail crossing areas are located at:
- W Vaughan Road/Archie Cannon Drive
- W Patrick Street
- College Avenue/Henry Clay Road
- England Street
- Myrtle Street
- Francis Street
- Ashcake Road
Map of Study Crossings
The purpose of the study is to develop potential solutions to improve safety and efficiency at the identified study intersections. These potential solutions fall into three categories:
- Improved barriers, pavement markings, and signage
- Traffic Signalization
- Grade separation