Ohio commission OKs $1.4M for rail crossing upgrades

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) on Nov. 5 approved  $1.4 million in federal funding for safety upgrades at four rail crossings in three Ohio counties.

CSX will install flashing lights and gates at the Harbor Drive grade crossing in Hamilton County by Aug. 5, 2026. Federal funding will cover the cost of the $562,576 project, PUCO officials said in a press release.

The Columbus & Ohio River Railroad Co. will install flashing lights and gates at three crossings located at Chestnut Street and Saint Clairsville Road in Tuscarawas County and Schumaker Road in Coshocton County. Federal funds of $873,981 will cover the projects' costs. The railroad must complete the upgrades by Nov. 5, 2026.

Local government entities can seek non-federal funding for additional safety upgrades, such as rumble strips, illumination or improved signage, for the crossings in their jurisdictions. The funding for such improvements comes from Ohio's State Grade Crossing Safety Fund and may not exceed $5,000 per project, PUCO officials said.