Illinois panel OKs crossing upgrades on NS track in two counties

The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) has approved grade crossing safety improvements along Norfolk Southern Railway track in Madison and McLean counties.

The commission approved stipulated agreements to install new automatic flashing light signals and gates at the Quercus Grove Road crossing near Edwardsville in Madison County and at the TR 370/2250 crossing near Holder in McLean County.

The total cost for the warning devices at the Madison County location is $369,918. ICC staff recommended that the state Grade Crossing Protection Fund be used to pay 95% of the signal design and installation costs, not to exceed $341,423. NS will pay remaining signal design and installation costs, and future operating and maintenance costs related to the new automatic warning devices and the temporary stop signs.

At the McLean County location, the total cost for the warning devices is $394,064. ICC staff recommended the state fund be used to pay 95% of the signal design and installation costs, not to exceed $371,361. NS will pay all remaining signal design and installation costs at the crossing, as well as future operating and maintenance costs related to the new warning devices and the temporary stop signs.

All work is to be completed within 18 months of the order date, ICC officials said in press releases.