Saginaw Police Department

Railroad Crossing Information

STOPPED TRAINS

The first railways were cut through Saginaw nearly 125 years ago. What was once a blessing to our community seems like a curse when you're stuck waiting for a train. Worse still, the train has broken down, or is stopped on the tracks, and you cannot move. "Why doesn't the police department do something about this!?!"

Section 471.007 of the Texas Transportation Code makes it an offense for trains to block railroad crossings for more than ten minutes. However, it is a defense to prosecution if the train has been stopped because of, "an act of God or breakdown of the train." Historically, breakdowns are the cause of most street blockages in Saginaw.

If you see a train stopped on the tracks and know it has been there more than ten minutes, call the police department at 817-232-0311. DO NOT CALL 9-1-1. We will send an officer to the scene to verify the circumstances. A citation may be issued, but this is a rare occurrence.

MALFUNCTIONING SIGNAL CROSSINGS

A common complaint is Saginaw is that the crossing arms are down, or a bells and lights are activated, yet no train is around. Crossing warning signals are not maintained or repaired by the City of Saginaw. Should you see warning signals malfunctioning, you may call the railroad directly. Each crossing has an identification number, as well as a toll-free telephone number for reporting problems. Calling the railroad directly is the quickest way to get these problems repaired.

Keep in mind that many of the warning devices are tied to traffic signals on Saginaw Boulevard. Problems with the devices can lead to traffic tie-ups or other problems for our motorists. If you see these issues develop, you may call the non-emergency police line (817-232-0311). Again, DO NOT CALL 9-1-1 unless an emergency situation exists.

LIVING WITH TRAINS

Trains are a fact of life in Saginaw. They always have the right-of-way, and you can guarantee they will be in your way when you are in a hurry. The police and fire departments often use Loop 820 as an alternate west-east route when time is of the essence, an idea you may wish to consider.

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Saginaw Police Department - 505 W. McLeroy Boulevard - Saginaw, Texas 76179