Illinois Commerce Commission approves nearly $600,000 public safety project at Pike County rail crossing

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — The Illinois Commerce Commission recently approved a stipulated agreement to improve public safety at the 150th Street highway-rail grade crossing of the Norfolk Southern Railway’s track near Hull in Pike County. The track is designated at AAR/DOT #479628U, railroad milepost DH-509.05.

The stipulated agreement requires the installation of new automatic flashing light signals, gates and warning devices and approach grade improvements at the 150th Street highway-rail grade crossing. 

The total estimated cost for the new automatic warning devices at the crossing is $377,383. ICC staff recommended that the Grade Crossing Protection Fund be used to pay 95 percent of the signal installation costs, not to exceed $358,514. Norfolk Southern will pay all remaining signal design and installation costs, as well as all future costs to operate and maintain the new automatic warning devices and temporary STOP signs.

Pike County, on behalf of Levee Township Road District, has estimated the cost to improve the road approach grades at $219,835. The township is unable to pay any of the costs to rehabilitate the approach grades. Staff recommends that the GCPF be used to pay 100 percent of the road approach grade rehabilitation costs, not to exceed $219,835.

“The installation of new automatic warning devices will ensure better protection for highway users at this crossing,” ICC Commissioner Michael T. Carrigan said in a press release. “The Grade Crossing Protection Fund brings to fruition necessary highway-rail crossing improvements in communities across Illinois. I am pleased we’re able to use GCRF monies to help Levee Township and Pike County move this important project forward.”

All work is expected to be completed within 18 months of the order date.