On Thursday, the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) approved public safety upgrades at the 100 East Road highway-rail crossing (AAR/DOT #063049H) in Galesburg, Knox County. The project allocates $371,383 from the state’s Grade Crossing Protection Fund (GCPF) to help install new automatic warning signals and circuitry.
“Illinois’ Grade Crossing Protection Fund makes it possible to install modernized safety infrastructure at rail crossings in all parts of the state. The project in Knox County is a perfect of example of how our agency is putting GCPF dollars to work,” said ICC Commissioner Michael T. Carrigan.
The total estimated cost of the signal design and construction is $390,930, 95 percent of which will be covered by the GCPF. BNSF Railway will pay the remaining 5 percent and the entire cost of any future maintenance.
All work is to be completed within 18 months of the ICC’s order.
For more information about Stipulated Agreement 1844, visit docket T25-0091.
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.
Follow the Illinois Commerce Commission on social media @ILCommerceComm.
***Courtesy of the Illinois Commerce Commission***
