Government agencies in three states advance crossing, bridge projects

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio recently approved construction authorization from the Ohio Rail Development Commission directing CSX Transportation and Norfolk Southern Railway to install flashing lights and gates at five grade crossings.

CSXT will upgrade crossings in Henry, Logan and Shelby counties, and NS will upgrade crossings in Fairfield and Preble counties.

The Class Is will be responsible for completing construction by April 11, 2013. Funding for the projects will be covered by federal dollars.

In addition, the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission approved the allocation of more than $26,000 from the state’s crossing protection fund to upgrade warning devices at two Kettle Falls International Railway L.L.C. crossings in Kettle Falls.

The funds will enable the railroad to upgrade flashing lights to LED lights, replace system batteries and install an electronic bell with newer motion detection technology. The upgrades must be completed by Feb. 28, 2013.

Meanwhile, the North Carolina Department of Transportation awarded a $3.6 million contract to PCL Civil Constructors Inc. to preserve the bascule-span bridge on the Carolina Coastal Railway in Carteret County.



Work on the Newport River bridge, which connects Morehead City to Radio Island, includes steel, mechanical, electrical and substructure repairs. Construction is slated to start Oct. 1 and conclude by fall 2013.