PUCO Approves Rail Safety Upgrades Across Five Counties
Written by Jennifer McLawhorn, Managing Editor
PUCO
COLUMBUS, Ohio - The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio has approved upgrades in Coshocton, Franklin, Wyandot, Fayette, and Washington counties.
According to PUCO, in Franklin County, Norfolk Southern will install gates and flashing lights by May 28, 2026 at the C.R. 117/ Brice Road grade crossing. Norfolk Southern will submit “site plans and cost estimates to the PUCO Rail Division and Ohio Rail Development Commission (ORDC) by Aug. 26, 2025.” The upgrade will be covered by federal funds.
In Coshocton County, Columbus & Ohio River Railroad Company, or CUOH, will upgrade the grade crossing at the Clow Lane intersection with flashing lights and gates. The cost of the project is $261,713 with the State Grade Crossing Protection Fund covering 75%, or up to $200,000, of the project. CUOH will cover the remaining 25% and any future maintenance costs.
In Kirby, Wyandot County, Chicago Fort Wayne & Eastern Railroad will install gates and flashing lights at S.R. 293 and Main Street grade crossing. According to PUCO, federal funds will cover $307,173 of the project.
In Fayette County, Indiana & Ohio Railway Company will also install flashing lights and gates along with surface reconstruction at the South North Street grade crossing by February 14, 2026. The project cost of $420,315 will be covered by federal funds.
In Washington County, Belpre Industrial Parkersburg Railroad will also install flashing lights and gates at the Pomeroy Pike grade crossing by May 14, 2026. The project cost of $509,506 will be covered by federal funds.
For safety during the projects including rumble strips and improved signage, local governments may seek funding from PUCO up to and not exceeding $5,000 per project.
