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Last week, the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) approved plans for two grade crossing improvement projects.

Through the state's Grade Crossing Protection Fund (GCPF), the ICC will fund 85 percent of the $252,257 cost to upgrade a Norfolk Southern Railway crossing near Albion. To be completed by December 2008, the project calls for installing automatic flashing light signals and gates, and advance warning pavement markings. NS will cover the remainder of project costs.

Through the GCPF, the ICC also will fund 92.5 percent of the $353,665 cost to upgrade a Union Pacific Railroad crossing in Arthur. Also to be completed by December 2008, the project calls for installing automatic flashing light signals and gates. UP will pay for the rest of the project.

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