(a) General.—
To the extent practicable, the Secretary of Transportation shall maintain a coordinated effort to develop and carry out solutions to the railroad grade crossing problem and measures to protect pedestrians in densely populated areas along railroad rights of way. To carry out this subsection, the Secretary may use the authority of the Secretary under this chapter and over highway, traffic, and motor vehicle safety and over highway construction.
(b) Signal Systems and Other Devices.—
Not later than June 22, 1989, the Secretary shall prescribe regulations and issue orders to ensure the safe maintenance, inspection, and testing of signal systems and devices at railroad highway grade crossings.
(c) Demonstration Projects.—
(1) The Secretary shall establish demonstration projects to evaluate whether accidents and incidents involving trains would be reduced by
(A) reflective markers installed on the road surface or on a signal post at railroad grade crossings;
(B) stop signs or yield signs installed at grade crossings; and
(C) speed bumps or rumble strips installed on the road surfaces at the approaches to grade crossings.
(2) Not later than June 22, 1990, the Secretary shall submit a report on the results of the demonstration projects to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.
