Michigan DOT awards funds for grade-crossing projects

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) announced the recipients of its fourth annual Local Grade Crossing Surface Program.

A total of $3 million in grants was awarded to 41 grade-crossing improvement projects, which can range from minor asphalt repairs to installation of new track and surface materials, MDOT officials said in a press release.

The program offers 60 percent funding for eligible projects, with railroads responsible for the remaining 40 percent of costs. All repair work is performed by the railroads and their contractors, with cooperation for detour routes provided by the local road agencies.

Railroads and local road agencies are responsible for scheduling the construction work, MDOT officials said.

This year, 40 road agencies in partnership with 17 railroads submitted a total of 81 applications for consideration. Awards are selected on a competitive basis.

A list of the 2020 recipients is available on MDOT's website.