THE FOLLOWING IS AN ILLINOIS COMMERCE COMMISSION RELEASE
The above is a file photo
Chicago, Il – On Thursday, the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) approved over $1.2 million from the Grade Crossing Protection Fund (GCPF) to improve public safety at the East 3800 North (AAR/DOT #166947W), East 3700 North (AAR/DOT #166946P), and East 3550 North Road (AAR/DOT #166945H) crossings near Rankin.
“Rail safety is a year-round priority for the ICC. Projects like the signal and surface upgrades to the Vermilion County crossings help make our state’s rail infrastructure safer for all,” said ICC Commissioner Michael T. Carrigan.
The GCPF will cover 95 percent of the estimated costs to design and install new automatic flashing light signals, not to exceed $1,214,115, and 100 percent of the grade surface rehabilitation at the East 3550 North Road crossing, not to exceed $52,460. Union Pacific Railroad Company will pay the remaining 5 percent to update the warning signals, along with all future maintenance costs. Butler Township will pay all future operating and maintenance costs related to the rehabilitated approaches.
All work is to be completed within 18 months of the ICC’s order. Project details can be found in Docket No. T26-0041.
About the Illinois Grade Crossing Protection Fund
In 1955, the State of Illinois passed legislation creating the GCPF. Since then, Illinois has strengthened its commitment to public highway-rail safety by increasing funding toward projects such as the closure and consolidation of existing public crossings, installation of new warning systems, highway approach improvements, upgrades to existing warning devices and interconnection to nearby traffic signals, construction/reconstruction of grade separation structures, and the construction of pedestrian grade separations. The ICC administers the GCPF, which is funded by motor fuel tax money designated for rail safety improvements. The General Assembly appropriates $42 million annually for the GCPF. Read more information on the ICC’s annual Crossing Safety Improvement Program here.
About the Illinois Commerce Commission
The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) is a quasi-judicial body made up of five Commissioners. Through its Public Utility Program, the Commission oversees the provision of adequate, reliable, efficient, and safe utility services at the least possible cost to Illinois citizens served by electric, natural gas, telecommunications, water, and sewer public utility companies. Through its Transportation Regulatory Program, the Commission oversees public safety and consumer protection programs with regard to intrastate commercial motor carriers of general freight, household goods movers, relocation towers, safety towers, personal property warehouses, and repossession agencies. The ICC’s Rail Safety Program also inspects and regulates the general safety of railroad tracks, facilities, and equipment in the state.
To learn more about the Commission, its offices, and bureaus here. Consumers who need help resolving a utility dispute can call 800-524-0795 or file an online complaint. For all transportation-related complaints, call 847-294-4326.
