Michigan DOT issues grade crossing repair grants

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) has announced nearly $3 million in awards to fund 50 grade crossing surface improvements for 2022.

The awards will cover 60% of the funding for eligible projects; railroads are responsible for the remaining 40%. The type of projects varies from minor asphalt repairs to installing new track and surface materials, MDOT officials said in a press release.

This is the sixth year the Local Grade Crossing Surface Program has helped fund such projects. The railroads and local road agencies will be responsible for scheduling construction.

"With approximately 4,800 public railroad crossing surfaces in Michigan, they can be very expensive to maintain or upgrade," said MDOT Office of Rail Director Peter Anastor. "In cooperation with local road agencies, this program can financially assist railroad companies in repairing their crossings, which will improve safety and provide smoother surfaces for road users."   

Grade crossings to be upgraded are located in Allegan, Bay, Genesee, Huron, Ingham, Iosco, Kalamazoo, Kent, Livingston, Macomb, Mason, Muskegon, Newaygo, Saginaw, Shiawassee, Van Buren and Wayne counties.