Springfield, IL - The Illinois Commerce Commission approved public safety projects for multiple highway-rail crossing in Vermilion County. The agreement requires CSX Transportation, Inc.to install new automatic warning devices and highway approach grade improvements at the 2950 North highway-rail grade crossing (AAR/DOT #353718S, milepost OZA-112.23) of CSX Transportation's track near Alvin and at the Jones Road crossing (AAR/DOT #353718S, milepost OZA-127.54) in Danville.

The estimated cost to design and install the new warning devices at the crossings is $1,010,024. ICC staff recommended that the Grade Crossing Protection Fund (GCPF) be used to pay 95 percent of the costs, not to exceed $959,523. The estimated cost to improve the highway approach grade at the crossings is $62,984. ICC staff recommended that the GCPF be used to pay 100 percent of the costs, not to exceed $62,984. The South Ross Township will pay all future maintenance costs for the new rehabilitated approaches.

"Projects like the ones in Vermilion County are necessary to keep pedestrians and motorists safe on or near railroad tracks and trains. The GCPF makes it possible for local communities to make these much-needed upgrades," said ICC Commissioner Michael T. Carrigan.

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

ABOUT THE STATE OF ILLINOIS GRADE CROSSING PROTECTION FUND (GCPF)

ABOUT THE ILLINOIS COMMERCE COMMISSION (ICC)

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.