PUCO Approves 27 Rail Crossing Upgrades
Written by Jennifer McLawhorn, Managing Editor
Courtesy of PUCO
COLUMBUS, Ohio – In Ohio, 27 rail crossings will receive upgrades in the form of LED lights and gates.
Public Utilities Commission of Ohio has approved upgrades for 27 rail crossings across six counties. Out of the 27 rail crossings, 22 will receive LED light installations in Coshocton, Knox, Licking, and Muskingum counties by January 10, 2025. Columbus & Ohio River Railroad will install these LED lights. According to the report, PUCO will pay $7,500 per crossing, totaling $165,000 and CUOH will pay any remaining costs.
Additionally, CSX will install flashing lights and gates at TR 107/Plymouth East Road grade crossing in Huron County by January 10, 2025. $242,041 in federal funding will pay for the upgrades.
At crossings at Stilwell Road and Linden Avenue in Muskingum County, Ohio Central Railroad will also install LED lights by January 10, 2025. While the total cost has yet to be determined, PUCO will pay $7,500 per crossing, totaling $15,000. Ohio Central Railroad will pay any remaining costs.
At Carrol Street grade crossing in Perry County and the Main Street grade crossing in Muskingum County, Ohio Southern Railroad will install LED lights by January 10, 2025. Similar to the Stilwell Road and Linden Avenue crossing costs, the official cost has yet to be determined. However, PUCO will pay $7,500 per crossing, totaling $15,000. Ohio Southern Railroad will pay any remaining costs.
Funding for safety improvements like rumble stripes, improved signage, etc. during these upgrades will be paid for via the State Grade Crossing Safety Fund and will not exceed $5,000 per project.
