Rail Corridor Improvement Study
The City of Madera is studying opportunities to improve safety, mobility, and connectivity along the Union Pacific Railroad corridor between Cleveland Avenue and Ninth Street.
About the Study
The Rail Corridor Improvement Study will evaluate seven existing at-grade railroad crossings and identify opportunities for future improvements. Community and stakeholder input will help shape recommendations that reflect Madera’s needs and priorities.
Particular attention will be given to Cleveland Avenue and Yosemite Avenue, including the potential for grade separations. Complementary improvements will also be evaluated at Central Avenue, 3rd Street, 4th Street, 6th Street, and 9th Street.
Why This Study Matters
| Improve safety Improve conditions for motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists. |
Reduce delays Improve traffic circulation and reduce train-related conflicts. |
| Strengthen connections Improve east-west connectivity along Cleveland and Yosemite avenues. |
Improve mobility Support better multimodal connections throughout the corridor. |
| Support Madera’s growth Plan for future transportation needs and quality of life. |
Position projects for funding Prepare improvements for potential state and federal funding. |
Study Area
The study follows the Union Pacific Railroad corridor from Cleveland Avenue to Ninth Street.
Crossings:
- Cleveland Avenue
- Central Avenue
- 3rd Street
- 4th Street
- Yosemite Avenue
- 6th Street
- 9th Street
Map of Project Study Area
Click the image to view the full-size version.
What the Study Will Evaluate
- Current conditions: traffic, crossing operations, delays, vehicle queuing, and emergency access
- People and mobility: pedestrian, bicycle, roadway, and multimodal connections
- Potential improvements: grade separation concepts and other crossing improvements
- Delivery considerations: conceptual engineering, capital costs, preliminary environmental considerations, and community input
Project Timeline
Dates may be updated as the study progresses.
| Milestone | Anticipated timing |
|---|---|
| Existing Conditions Report | Winter 2027 |
| Transportation Technical Analysis | Fall 2027 |
| Alternatives Analysis and Supporting Conceptual Engineering | Fall 2027 |
| Capital Cost Estimates | Winter 2027 |
| Preliminary Environmental Impact Analysis | Winter 2027 |
| Draft and Final Alternatives and Safety Report | Winter 2028 |
Get Involved
Provide Your Input
The public-input link will be posted here when available.
Community Engagement
Upcoming meetings and other opportunities to participate will be posted here as they become available.
Project Documents
Approved brochures, documents, and reports will be posted here when available.
Project Team & Contact
Study Sponsor: City of Madera
Consulting Team: HNTB and VRPA Technologies, Inc.
In Collaboration With: Union Pacific Railroad and Caltrans
Questions about the study may be directed to:
Nicole Say
City of Madera Engineering Department
nsay@madera.gov
(559) 661-3688
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