Modern-day DC powered light rail lines are designed with many effective stray current control
features built-in, principally an electrically ungrounded traction power negative return circuit.
This often includes track construction measures intended to establish much higher track-toearth
resistances when compared to the streetcars of long ago. This attribute dramatically
reduces stray current leakage to tolerable levels with limited if any negative impact on
underground pipeline corrosion control. Case histories of water pipelines constructed near
light rail lines built within the last nine years are reviewed. Results of field evaluations in
Sacramento, Salt Lake City and Minneapolis are presented. Guidelines for stray current
corrosion protection strategies for ductile iron pipelines are provided.