Grade separation, crossing projects land funds in two states

The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) has authorized a $4.2 million allocation from the Grade Crossing Protection Fund (GCPF) to help pay for construction of a grade separation in Hinsdale.

The $12.7 million project calls for replacing a bridge that carries Oak Street over BNSF Railway Co. tracks. Construction is scheduled to begin in May 2015 and conclude in June 2016.

The GCPF allocation will be used to reimburse the village of Hinsdale up to $4.2 million for eligible construction costs. Other project costs will be covered by the Illinois Department of Transportation and the village.

The ICC also authorized up to $50,000 from the GCPF to help fund construction of an expanded multi-use path and pedestrian gates at a grade crossing on 135th Street in Plainfield. The project will improve safety in the area of the CN/Wisconsin Central crossing, especially for children traveling to a nearby elementary school, ICC officials said in a press release.

The $300,000 project includes installation of the multi-use path and raised median. The GCPF allocation will fund half of the cost to install the pedestrian gates. The village of Plainfield will cover remaining project costs. 

Meanwhile, the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio has approved construction authorization from the Ohio Rail Development Commission directing the the Columbus & Ohio River Railroad to install gates and mast-mounted flashing lights at a Sinfield Road/Township Road 171 crossing near Cadiz.

The upgrade, which will be funded by federal dollars, must be completed no later than Sept. 10, 2015.