ICC Approves Upgrades in 3 Counties
Written by Jennifer McLawhorn, Managing Editor
icc.illinois.gov
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – On February 8th, the Illinois Commerce Commission has approved crossing upgrades in Iroquois, Adams, and Logan Counties.
IROQUOIS COUNTY
In Iroquois County, the ICC approved a Stipulated Agreement to install new automatic warning devices at Illinois Central’s Railroad track near Danforth. The devices will be installed at the County Road 2300 North highway-rail grade crossing. The estimated cost of the design and installation is $365,106 with the Grade Crossing Protection Fund (GCPF) paying for 95%, or up to $346,851. The IC will pay the remaining 5% as well as any future maintenance costs.
ICC Commissioner Michael T. Carrigan said, “Illinois has the second largest rail system in the nation – that includes more than 10,000 public highway-rail crossings. Many of these crossings need attention to ensure pedestrians and motorists remain safe around train tracks. . . By allocating Grade Crossing Protection Funds, the ICC can help local governments and railroads to make much-needed safety improvements like the ones in Iroquois County.”
ADAMS COUNTY
In Adams County, the ICC approved a Stipulated Agreement to install new automatic warning devices and circuitry as well as make minor improvements to the County Road 1700 North highway-rail grade crossing. The grade crossing is located near Fowler and belongs to BNSF. The estimated cost to install the devices and make improvements is $393,722. ICC will pay up to 95% of said cost with BNSF being financially responsible for the remaining 5% and future maintenance costs. However, Gilmer Township is reported to pay 100% of approach adjustment costs and highway approach maintenance costs.
LOGAN COUNTY
In Logan County, the ICC approved a Stipulated Agreement to install new automatic warning devices and circuity and make approach grade improvements at IC’s Railroad near Latham in Logan County. The devices will be installed at the 300th Street highway-rail crossing. According to the ICC, the total cost to design and install the devices is $373,631. As with the previous Stipulated Agreements above, 95% of the funds will come from the GCPF. IC will be responsible for the remaining 5% and any future maintenance costs.
ICC staff has recommended that the GCPF also be used to pay for 100% of the approach design and construction costs up to $165,908. According to the report, under the agreement, “the Lake Fork Township Road District will continue to be responsible for maintaining the highway approaches.”
Each of these three Agreements states that work is to be completed within 18 months of the Order date.
