King/Colborne London Ontario. Railroad crossing.?

Question

Is there any reason the gates have to be down 35 minutes before a train comes along. The City should be having a look at the railroad crossing, instead of worrying abour drive throughs. It's like a freakin hick town !!!!!

Answer 1

The gate isn't timed, it depends how far the switch is from the crossing.  If the train stops there (on the switch) for shunting or whatever the gate will stay down.

Answer 2

I highly doubt those gates were down for 35 minutes. There is an electrical sensor probably 75 feet from the crossing on both sides. The train probably stops a way down. If it is obviously like 10 years old, the hardware wouldn't know if the train had stopped. I'd investigate, seeing if there are any nearby stations/ depots or if there's a number to call. Anyways good luck...