Train operating during commuting hours?

Question

Is it illegal or not-allowed for BNSF trains to block the morning / afternoon commutes?

Answer 1

Most carriers are paid incentives for allowing Amtrak and commute trains to run on their tracks.

One such incentive is for "on time" running and as a result most try to give Amtrak and commutes the right of way, but it isn't always possible, and though it is not illegal, they can lose that incentive for delaying these trains.

Answer 2

Most commuter and passenger rail operations don't own the majority of the track they operate on; they usually run on existing freight trackage.

Agreements are signed that allow this usage, and the commuter or passenger railway will usually pay a "wheelage" fee - a fee based on how much they use the track.  Part of the agreement may also stipulate minimum performance standards: track speed, on-time performance, fluidity of the operation.  The commuter or passenger road pays to have these minimum standards; when they aren't abided by, or there is a failure, the hosting freight road may pay a penalty, or the passenger road may get a break on what they usually pay.

Failures, congestion, and malfunctions are all a part of daily life on the railway.  It's not at all illegal for freight roads to slow down, block, or cancel passenger or commuter trains, but understand it's often unavoidable, and there are penalties for it.

Answer 3

If I understand your question right, you're trying to get to work, and !@#^#&* there's a stupid freight train blocking the crossing of the route you chose to get to work.   You're annoyed because now you'll be late.

Are freight trains allowed to operate 24x7?  Yes.  If you don't like it, talk to the Federal Railroad Administration because states are not allowed to regulate railway operation.

If you can't beat 'em, BNSF is hiring :)

Answer 4

it is not illegal for trains to block the crossings trains have the right of way they have a  set time were have to be if you run it to a block crossing try leaving the house a bit earlier