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The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) recently broke ground for the $600 million O.C. Bridges Program, which calls for building seven grade separations along a BNSF Railway Co. line in Anaheim, Fullerton and Placentia, Calif.

The authority plans to build a series of underpasses and overpasses at seven crossings to separate train and auto traffic. Construction has begun for grade separations at Placentia Avenue, which borders the cities of Fullerton and Placentia, and Kramer Boulevard. Additional projects will begin on a staggered basis over the next two years at five other locations, OCTA officials said in a prepared statement.

About 70 trains per day travel along the BNSF line and rail traffic is anticipated to increase more than 45 percent by 2030, meaning a train will enter a crossing every 10 minutes, according to the authority.

“Making the important upgrades on these railroad crossings will positively benefit everyone impacted by delays on these crossing,” said OCTA Chairwoman Patricia Bates. “This project will benefit pedestrians, motorists and residents alike by enhancing safety, eliminating traffic delays and improving the quality of life.”