FIGURE 5.16 Fencing styles
RETURN TO SECTION V: Vertical Separation
Type-I
Picket FenceWhere trespassing is not as much of a problem, a low wood rail fence can still serve as an effective reminder to trail users to stay off the tracks.
Type-II
Post and Cable
This inexpensive fence is occasionally requested a railroad or used on a RWT primarily where trespassing has not been an historical problem, there is adequate setback, and the fence serves primarily to demarcate the railroad property boundaries. The fence does not provide any screening or anti-trespassing features.
Type-III
Chain-Link
Chain-link fences are popular due to their effectiveness in keeping trail users off the tracks, relative low cost, and ease of maintenance. Chain-link fence may not be appropriate for rural areas where there is no history of trespassing, or for areas with a high history of trespassing, since it is very easy to cut and vandalize. Most chain-link fences are visually unappealing -- and tend to project and image of an urban industrial environment. For this reason, trail designers should explore using other, more appealing types of fences whenever possible.
Type-IV
Vinyl-Coated
Chain-Link
Similar to Type II, but with either a plastic woven fabric or wood battens in the chain-link material providing a solid-type barrier to help catch debris and provide wind and visual buffering.
Type-V
Israeli-Style
Steel Fence
Sometimes referred to as Israeli-style fencing for its use in Israel to protect kibbutzs, this product is more expensive than chain-link, difficult to vandalize, difficult to scale, and relatively easy to repair if it is cut. It would be inappropriate for areas requiring aesthetic treatment, and provides limited screening or buffering benefits.
Type-VI
Wrought Iron
Picket Fence
This is the ultimate in vandal-resistant fencing, and is used in locations that have a history of trespassing. It is virtually impossible to cut and difficult to scale. Because of its cost and visual impact, It is typically used at specific locations rather than along an entire corridor.
Type-VII
Wall
Very rarely used due to its cost and visual impact, solid concrete block walls are virtually indestructible and offer complete buffering and screening from rail debris or trains. A wall may be appropriate where a RWT must be placed very close to tracks for short distances. Walls are most commonly used in areas where a grade separation requires a retaining wall adjacent to the tail. Wall design in active rail corridors should be carefully coordinated with rail engineers, because they can have an effect on the structural integrity of the rail bed, alter drainage patterns in the rail corridor, and, in some circumstances, impede access by railroad maintenance equipment.
FIGURE 5.16 Fencing styles
