Illinois provides funds for CN grade separation in Aurora

The state of Illinois will provide more than $25.5 million for a grade separation project in Aurora at a U.S. Route 34 and CN crossing, Gov. Pat Quinn recently announced.

A bridge for U.S. Route 34, or Ogden Avenue, will be built over CN tracks. This summer, Herlihy Mid-Continent Co. will begin construction, which will be managed by the Illinois Department of Transportation.

The crossing averages 31,200 vehicles and 42 trains per day. The project will eliminate motorist delays and reduce the potential for train, vehicle and bicycle accidents by eliminating the grade crossing, state officials said in a press release.

"After completion, this project will help traffic flow, enhance more economic opportunities for businesses and provide a safe crossing for emergency vehicles and pedestrians," said State Rep. Stephanie Kifowit.

The project is part of Gov. Quinn’s $31 billion Illinois Jobs Now! initiative, the largest construction program in Illinois history.