I've heard that the FTA basically prohibits grade crossings for new heavy rail extensions, but most heavy rail extensions use third rail. Third rail isn't necessarily the issue as shown by the LIRR, MNRR and CTA (though two of the three are railroads, and the third's crossings are legacy), but would the FTA allow grade crossings if new HRT used overhead catenary instead of third rail? I'm guessing not due to the lighter construction standards, but they do allow lighter LRT vehicles to have grade crossings and at-grade segments.
Thanks!
Moderator's Note: edited thread title, 08/20/16
Thanks!
Moderator's Note: edited thread title, 08/20/16