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Railroads

Illinois Commerce Commission Approves Highway-Over-Rail Structure Construction in Springfield

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Illinois Commerce Commission has authorized the City of Springfield to proceed with constructing a new highway-over-rail structure at North Grand Avenue, eliminating two grade crossings and improving commuter traffic flow. The project, estimated to cost $34,307,000, is expected to be partially funded by a $19,800,000 federal RAISE grant. The City has requested $12,532,000 from the Grade Crossing Protection Fund (GCPF) and contributions from Norfolk Southern Railway Company and Illinois & Midland Railroad, Inc.

Key Takeaways:

  • The City of Springfield has been granted permission to construct a new highway-over-rail structure at North Grand Avenue, eliminating two grade crossings and improving commuter traffic flow.
  • The estimated total project cost is $34,307,000, with a $19,800,000 federal RAISE grant expected to cover part of the costs.
  • The City has requested $12,532,000 from the Grade Crossing Protection Fund (GCPF) and contributions from Norfolk Southern Railway Company and Illinois & Midland Railroad, Inc.
  • The project is expected to be completed by December 31, 2027, with staff recommending the entry of an Order granting the City's petition to construct the project.
  • Respondents have no objections to the petition, and the Illinois Commerce Commission has approved the project.
  • The sports complex, public park, and high school in the vicinity of the crossings will also benefit from the improved traffic flow.
  • The City has proposed to provide $136,826 for construction costs eligible for funding from the GCPF and $1,113,174 for GCPF ineligible construction costs for additional resurfacing on North Grand Avenue and improvements to Michigan Avenue.

Statistics:

  • Estimated total project cost: $34,307,000
  • Federal RAISE grant amount: $19,800,000
  • City's requested GCPF funds: $12,532,000
  • Proposed construction costs eligible for GCPF funding: $136,826
  • Proposed construction costs ineligible for GCPF funding: $1,113,174
  • Timeframe for project completion: December 31, 2027

Sources:

  • Illinois Commerce Commission, "Memorandum to the Commission from Latrice Kirkland-Montaque, Chief Administrative Law Judge David Badillo, Administrative Law Judge, dated August 8, 2024" (Source document:T23-0106)

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