ICC approves Cumberland County rail safety project

Chicago, IL - On Wednesday, the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) authorized the installation of new automatic warning devices to improve public safety at the 7th Street highway-rail crossing (AAR/DOT #476228R) of Decatur & Eastern Illinois Railroad's track in Neoga. 

"Warning signals, gates, and other improvements to Illinois' existing rail infrastructure are essential for preventing train collisions and keeping Illinoisans safe around train tracks. The Grade Crossing Protection Fund helps make these critical safety projects possible for communities in all areas of the state," said ICC Commissioner Michael T. Carrigan.

The total estimated cost of the signal design and construction is $475,436. The Grade Crossing Protection Fund (GCPF) will be used to pay 90 percent of the estimated costs. The cost estimate also includes incidental surface and track work related to the project. Decatur & Eastern Illinois Railroad will pay the remaining 10 percent of the signal design and installation costs, along with all temporary STOP sign and future maintenance costs. 

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

More information may be found in Stipulated Agreement 2383, Docket No. T25-0049. 

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.

Follow the Illinois Commerce Commission on social media @ILCommerceComm.