ICC Approves Marion County Highway-Rail Crossing Upgrades

Springfield, IL - The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) approved a stipulated agreement to install new automated warning devices and other public safety improvements at multiple crossing locations across Marion County. Projects at the Edgar Road crossing near Kinmundy (AAR/DOT #295295J), the Laughman Road crossing near Alma (AAR/DOT #295300D), and the West Line Road crossing near Odin (AAR/DOT #295314L) will all receive funding from Illinois' Grade Crossing Protection Fund (GCPF).

"Improving our state's existing rail safety infrastructure goes a long way toward reducing collisions and keeping Illinoisians safe alongside train tracks," said ICC Commissioner Michael T. Carrigan. "The ICC recognizes the important role the Grade Crossing Protection Fund plays in helping railroads and local governments complete these critical safety projects."

The total estimated cost of the signal design and installations at the three crossings is $1,512,762. ICC staff recommended that the GCPF be used to pay 95 percent of the signal design and construction costs, not to exceed $1,437,124. Illinois Central Railway Company will pay the remaining 5 percent of the costs, and all future maintenance costs for the signals and circuitry.

The total estimated cost to improve the existing highway approaches is $829,000, 100 percent of which will be covered by the GCPF. The respective local Township Road Districts will be responsible for future maintenance costs at the highway approaches.

All work is to be completed within 18 months from the Order date.

Read Stipulated Agreements 2322, 2324, and 2352 for more information on the projects.

About the Illinois Commerce Commission

The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) is a quasi-judicial body made up of five Commissioners.  Through its Public Utility Program, the Commission oversees the provision of adequate, reliable, efficient, and safe utility services at the least possible cost to Illinois citizens served by electric, natural gas, telecommunications, water, and sewer public utility companies.  Through its Transportation Regulatory Program, the Commission oversees public safety and consumer protection programs with regard to intrastate commercial motor carriers of general freight, household goods movers, relocation towers, safety towers, personal property warehouses and repossession agencies. The Commission's Rail Safety Program also inspects and regulates the general safety of railroad tracks, facilities, and equipment in the state.

To learn more about the Commission, its offices, and bureaus, click here. If you are a consumer who needs help resolving a utility dispute call 800-524-0795 or file an online complaint here.  For a complaint related to transportation, call 217-782-6448.

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