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The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) recently approved plans for upgrades to 10 grade crossings involving three Class Is.

The commission green-lighted improvements for four Union Pacific Railroad crossings in Marion. To be completed in August 2009, the projects call for installing automatic flashing light signals and gates with light-emitting diode lights and constant warning time (CWT) control circuitry. The crossings currently are equipped only with antiquated flashing light signals, the ICC said.

The commission will provide monies from the Grade Crossing Protection Fund (GCPF) to cover half the costs for three of the crossings; the Illinois Department of Transportation will cover half of the other crossing’s upgrade costs and UP will fund all remaining expenses.

The ICC also approved upgrades to five BNSF Railway Co. crossings in Hinsdale. To be completed in June 2010, the projects — which total $5.7 million — call for installing CWT control circuitry, improved gate systems and in-pavement trapped vehicle detection loops.

The work also includes the installation of CWT circuitry at three pedestrian crossings, a four-quadrant gate system at one crossing as a demonstration project and a new surface at one crossing. The commission will provide $2.8 million from the GCPF to help cover CWT and four-quadrant gate installation costs, and other project expenses.

Finally, the ICC approved improvements to one CSX Transportation crossing near Noble. To be completed in August 2009, the project calls for installing automatic flashing light signals and gates.

The commission will provide $168,969 from the GCPF to cover 95 percent of the warning device installation costs. CSXT will fund the remainder.

Funded by motor fuel taxes designated for rail safety improvements, the GCPF provides $27 million annually for crossing upgrades and the construction or reconstruction of grade separations.