Crossing upgrades on tap in Ohio, Washington

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio last week approved construction authorization from the Ohio Rail Development Commission directing the installation of gates and mast-mounted flashing lights at five grade crossings in Marion.

Work at the North Greenwood Street crossing must be completed by Oct. 14, while work at the Barnhart Street, Madison Avenue and Jefferson Street crossings must be completed by July 14, 2016. The projects will be funded by federal dollars.

Meanwhile, the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) approved an allocation from the Grade Crossing Protective Fund at the request of the Central Washington Railroad (CWR) to upgrade a Grandridge Road crossing near Grandview.
 
CWR will receive $14,290 to upgrade flashing lights to LEDs and replace a warning bell, batteries and a battery charger at the crossing. The LED flashing lights will provide greater visibility for drivers, while the new batteries and battery charger will improve reliability if a power failure occurs at the crossing, UTC officials said in a press release.
 
Work must be completed by June 15. CWR will cover labor costs associated with the project and be responsible for any additional expenses.