ICC Approves Rail Safety Upgrades in Ogle and Iroquois Counties
Written by Jennifer McLawhorn, Managing Editor
Illinois Commerce Commission (courtesy ICC)
CHICAGO - The Illinois Commerce Commission has approved the installation of automatic warning devices in Iroquois and Ogle Counties.
At the highway-rail crossing at Kilbuck Road in Ogle County, the total cost for design and construction of the signals is $364,819. It is recommended the Grade Crossing Protection Fund (GCPF) pay 95% or $346,578. Dakota, Minnesota and Eastern Railroad will pay the remaining 5% and any future maintenance costs.
At crossings near Goodwine and Woodland in Iroquois County over Union Pacific‘s tracks, automatic warning devices will also be installed. The estimated total cost is $1,637,248. Similar to the Ogle County crossing, the GCPF will be used to pay for 95% or $1,555,385 of the design and installation. Union Pacific will pay the remaining 5% and any future maintenance costs.
ICC Commissioner Michael T. Carrigan said, “Rail safety infrastructure improvements are beneficial to all who live, work, and travel along train tracks. . . The Grade Crossing Protection Fund makes it possible for communities to undertake these vital projects, reducing the risk of collisions and making travel safer for everyone.”
