WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA (WGGB/WSHM) -- Early warning lights installed at a rail crossing near the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Bridge are not functioning reliably, leaving drivers without advance notice when CSX freight trains are crossing or stalled on the tracks.

The lights, located just before the bridge, also known as the Strathmore Bridge coming from Agawam, and on First Street in West Springfield, are designed to flash yellow when a train is on or approaching the crossing. Video taken Thursday shows no flashing lights for oncoming drivers, despite multiple trains crossing.

MassDOT first installed the early warning lights in 2019. The agency said it is not responsible for maintaining the lights.

West Springfield Mayor Will Reichelt explained the town is aware of the problem. The town’s engineering department is currently in the process of securing a new contract for the controller boxes.

Residents said it has not been unusual for traffic to back up for about 30 minutes, and sometimes more than an hour, when CSX freight trains are stalled or moving slowly through the crossing.

Andrew Egan, who lives next to the crossing, said the lights are unreliable in both directions, including sometimes flashing when no train is approaching.

“I wish they were available every day, but the lights do not work,” Egan explained. “As soon as they get here, they see a train, oh no, I’ve got to go around. That’s ten minutes on their trip. If those lights actually worked, they would have to worry about it because they could just go right around.”

The matter is expected to go before the West Springfield Town Council in August. Reichelt said he expects the lights to be back and running soon.

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