The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) approved a stipulated agreement to install an automatic warning device on the railroad crossing at 2450 East Street in rural Kewanee. The estimated cost for the new automatic warning device at the crossing is $397,780. ICC staff recommended that the Grade Crossing Protection Fund (GCPF) be used to pay 95% of the design and installation costs, not to exceed $377,889. BNSF Railway Company will pay the remaining costs and be responsible for future operating and maintenance costs for the new automatic warning device and temporary stop signs. The work is expected to be completed within 18 months from the order date.
“Upgrading warning devices at highway-rail crossings prevents collisions and saves lives,” said ICC Commissioner Michael T. Carrigan. “The Grade Crossing Protection Fund is an important resource used by the ICC to help railroads and local governments complete needed improvements to keep people safe near trains and train tracks.”
To read Stipulated Agreement 2336 in Docket No. T24-0073, click here.
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 Commission 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. For more information and to see the ICC’s annual Crossing Safety Improvement Program, click 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 Commission’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, click here. If you are a consumer who needs help resolving a utility dispute, call 800-524-0795 or file an online complaint here. For a complaint related to transportation, call 217-782-6448.
Follow the Illinois Commerce Commission on social media @ILCommerceComm