Bungalow Lights

[mloik]

Hello all,

Here on the Santa Cruz (CA) branch of the UP, there are lights (approx. 4" across) on the top of the bungalows that sit by grade crossings. Does anyone know why?

Michael in California

[Anonymous]

By "bungalows" I take it you mean the electrical shed for the signals?
I've seen blinking red lights on the signal boxes and sheds before
too. I think (and it's quite possible I'm wrong) that they are there as
another way of indicating to train crews the signals are functioning.
If it's a steady white light it may be just for visibility and to help prevent
intrusion.

[jeffhergert]

The relay boxes at crossings on the UP in Iowa have had small white lights that are power indicator lights. If the light is out, it means the commercial power supply is out and train crews are to report this to the dispatcher. They used to test crews on this at night by covering the light to see if a train reported the light out.
Within the last few months or so a strobe light that would be about 4" wide have been placed on crossing boxes. They flash when the power supply is interupted and the crossing is on battery back up. The flashing strobe is a lot more noticeable, especially during inclement weather.

[mloik]

jeffhergert,

Many thanks for the useful info!

Michael