PUCO seeks applicants for grade-crossing project funding

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) is calling on local highway authorities to apply for available state funding for railroad grade-crossing improvements in their communities.

Ohio has two state-funded programs that may be applicable: the state grade crossing upgrade program and the supplemental assistance program.

The grade-crossing upgrade program allows local communities to share the cost of installing safety devices with the state and local railroads. To apply, the local highway authority should submit an application to the PUCO for approval.

The commission also administers the supplemental assistance program to provide safety enhancements at crossings at which state or federal installation of active warning devices is pending, as well as at crossings that have only crossbucks. Under the program, the PUCO will provide up to $5,000 for rumble strips, illumination, improved signage, vegetation cut-back or other safety enhancements around the crossing.

To apply for supplemental assistance, local highway authorities should submit this form to the PUCO for approval.