Crossing projects on tap in Missouri, Montana and Ohio

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio has approved construction authorization from the Ohio Rail Development Commission directing three railroads to improve grade crossings in Allen, Hardin and Van Wert counties by May 7, 2014.

R. J. Corman Railroad Group's Western Ohio Lines will install mast-mounted flashing lights and roadway gates at the South Wapak Road/Township Road 91 crossing in Shawnee Township; CSX Transportation will install mast-mounted flashing lights and roadway gates at the Township Road 179 crossing in Hale Township; and the Chicago, Fort Wayne & Eastern Railroad will install mast-mounted flashing lights and roadway gates at the Main Street/U.S. 127 crossing in Van Wert County.

Meanwhile, the Montana Department of Transportation is seeking public comments on two proposed crossing improvement projects that would be accomplished in conjunction with BNSF Railway Co. beginning in spring 2014.

The projects call for replacing the existing signal systems with new electronics and adding gates at a Whitlash Road crossing west of Chester and Laird Road crossing in Chester.

The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission also is soliciting public input on proposed crossing improvements. Comments are due by Sept. 7.

The commission is considering proposals to upgrade five BNSF crossings in or near Hayti, Marston, Matthews, McBride and Sikeston. The work would involve the installation of new LED flashing light signals and gates, audible bells, signal bungalows and constant warning time circuitry. In addition, BNSF would install new concrete surfaces at some of the crossings.