ICC approves 5 Perry County rail safety improvement projects

Chicago, IL - On Thursday, the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) authorized highway approach grade improvements at five Perry County rail crossings. The projects include Green Market Road in Du Quoin (AAR/DOT #295060Y), Gas Plant Road (AAR/DOT #295057R) near Du Quoin, Kimmel Road (AAR/DOT #295051A), City Lake Road (AAR/DOT #295050T), and Kimzey Road (AAR/DOT #295046D) near Tamaroa.

"The Grade Crossing Protection Fund allows Illinois to make the necessary infrastructure upgrades for safer tracks and roadways," said ICC Commissioner Michael T. Carrigan. "Our thanks go out to the Perry County Unit Road District for bringing these much-needed improvement projects to the ICC's attention."

The estimated combined cost for the highway approach grade improvements at all five crossings is $1.03 million. ICC staff recommends the Grade Crossing Protection Fund (GCPF) be used to pay 100 percent of the approach rehabilitation costs, not to exceed the estimated cost.

The Perry County Unit Road District and Perry County Highway Department will be responsible for all future maintenance and costs related to the highway approaches at each crossing under their respective jurisdictions.

All work must be completed within two years from the order date.

More information may be found in Stipulated Agreement 2366, Docket No. T25-0031.

The ICC encourages all rail crossing users to remain vigilant and adhere to safety regulations in and around crossings.

In 1955, the State of Illinois passed legislation creating the GCPF. Since then, Illinois has strengthened its commitment to public highway-rail safety by increasing funding toward projects such as the closure and consolidation of existing public crossings, installation of new warning systems, highway approach improvements, upgrades to existing warning devices and interconnection to nearby traffic signals, construction/reconstruction of grade separation structures, and the construction of pedestrian grade separations. The ICC administers the GCPF, which is funded by motor fuel tax money designated for rail safety improvements. The General Assembly appropriates $42 million annually for the GCPF. Read more information on the ICC's annual Crossing Safety Improvement Program here.

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 ICC'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 here. Consumers who need help resolving a utility dispute can call 800-524-0795 or file an online complaint. For all transportation-related complaints, call 847-294-4326.

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