ICC Approves Rail Improvements in Marion, Pulaski, and Shelby Counties
Written by Jennifer McLawhorn, Managing Editor
Illinois Commerce Commission (courtesy ICC)
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - The Illinois Commerce Commission approved rail safety upgrades for Marion, Pulaski, and Shelby Counties.
Marion County
Two public safety rail improvement projects were approved by the ICC. These include installing new automatic flashing light signals and gates at the County Road 1900 North and County Road 1800 North crossings on Union Pacific tracks near Kinmundy. The estimated cost for design and installation totals $683,880 with the Grade Crossing Protection Fund (GCPF) covering 95% of the costs. The remaining 5% and future maintenance costs are left to Union Pacific.
At the CR1800 N location, the ICC has also approved highway approach improvements. The proposed cost is $492,000 that will be completely covered by the GCPF. The Township is responsible for any future maintenance costs.
Pulaski County
The ICC approved the installation of new automatic warning gates and highway grade approach improvements at the Aldridge Road grade crossing on Illinois Central Railroad’s track. The estimated cost for design and installation is $497,671 with the GCPF covering 95%, or $472,788. The remaining 5% and future maintenance costs are left to Illinois Central Railroad Company.
Additionally, the estimated cost to rehabilitate the existing west highway approach is $121,580 that will be covered completely by the GCPF. Pulaski Township is responsible for covering any future maintenance.
Shelby County
The ICC approved installing new automatic warning gates and highway grade approach improvements at multiple grade crossings in Shelby County. These are located at 1975 East, 1900 East, and 1750 North on Union Pacific tracks. The estimated cost for the design and installation is $1,061,673 with the GCPF covering 95% of the costs. The remaining 5% and future maintenance costs are left to Union Pacific.
Additionally, the estimated cost to rehabilitate the existing highway approaches is $585,500 that will be completely covered by the GCPF. Future maintenance costs are left to the Okaw Township Road District.
