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The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) recently approved Union Pacific Railroad's plan to upgrade four grade crossings in Marion.

To be completed in July 2010, the $950,000 project calls for installing automatic flashing light signals and gates with light emitting diode lights and constant warning time control circuitry. UP plans to increase train speed in its Marion subdivision and the crossings currently are equipped with antiquated flashing light signals.
 
The ICC will provide $475,000 in Grade Crossing Protection Funds (GCPF) to cover half the project costs; UP will provide the remainder. Funded by motor fuel taxes designated for rail safety improvements, the GCPF program provides $27 million annually for crossing upgrades and the construction or reconstruction of grade separations.