In 2020, FRA created a dedicated website allowing the public and law enforcement personnel to use web-based forms to voluntarily submit information about blocked highway-rail grade crossings to FRA. Under the currently approved information collection request (ICR), users provide information regarding the location, date, time, duration, and immediate impacts of highway-rail grade crossings blocked by slow-moving or stationary trains. FRA uses the data collected to gain a more complete picture of where, when, and for how long blocked crossings occur, and what impacts result from reported blocked crossing those incidents. Additionally, FRA uses the information to respond to congressional inquiries from members of Congress and so that congressional staff can respond to their constituents. Furthermore, FRA also uses the information gathered to facilitate meetings, outreach, and other solutions for stakeholders to reduce or eliminate blocked crossing concerns. This information is voluntary and open to the public.
In a July 2022 Memorandum, DOT issued mandated requirements for the implementation of an enhanced Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), making the use of a username and password no longer acceptable on public applications. Due to the observed lower usage of the dedicated law enforcement web link and the large burden associated, FRA has determined that the high burden associated with providing all law enforcement and first responders with the required DOT email address to use MFA, FRA determined that maintaining the restricted access, dedicated web link was not administratively practical. FRA has removed the law enforcement web link, and all blocked crossings information are now being submitted using the unrestricted web-based form for the public.
This submission reflects information received though the general public web-based form available for use by all members of the public, such as law enforcement, first responders and concerned citizens. There is no requirement for recordkeeping. The frequency will be as needed as determined by the public.
This submission is an extension without change (with changes in estimates) of a currently approved information collection request (ICR). The current OMB inventory for this ICR shows a total burden of 1,033 hours and 15,862 responses, while the requesting inventory estimates a total burden of 1,576 hours and 26,723 responses. The increase in estimated burden is a positive reflection of an increase in the number of users providing information through the blocked Crossing portal.
Overall, the burden estimate for this submission has increased by 543 hours and increased by 10,861 responses.
$50,117
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
James Payne 202 493-6005
No
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.
Form FRA F 6180.175 Blocked Crossing Reporting Form
August 22, 2025 FR Notice (30-Day).pdf
2130-0630_Blocked Highway-Rail Grade SJ_(clean) 08-20-2025.docx
Inquiry into Blocked Highway-Rail Grade Crossings throughout the United States