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The Illinois Commerce Commission recently approved plans for an upgrade to a Union Pacific Railroad grade crossing near Royal.

The commission will provide funds from the Grade Crossing Protection Fund (GCPF) to cover 30 percent of the project's $388,213 cost. The Illinois Department of Transportation will fund 70 percent of installation costs, and UP will cover any remaining expenses and future maintenance costs.

To be completed in May 2009, the project calls for installing automatic flashing light signals, light-emitting diode lights and gates controlled by constant warning circuitry.

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.