ICC Approves $736,000 Safety Enhancements for Rail Crossings

The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) has allocated funding to enhance safety at two highway-rail crossings in Stillman Valley. On September 18, 2023, the commission approved a project to replace automatic warning devices and install gates at the Stillman Road and Walnut Street crossings of the Dakota, Minnesota and Eastern Railroad’s tracks. This decision aligns with efforts to improve rail safety during Rail Safety Week.

Michael T. Carrigan, an ICC Commissioner, emphasized the significance of the upgrades, stating, “It’s appropriate for the ICC to approve these life-saving projects during Rail Safety Week.” The enhancements are part of a broader initiative to modernize warning devices at highway-rail crossings throughout Illinois.

The estimated cost for the signal design and construction work at both crossings amounts to approximately $736,000. According to ICC staff recommendations, the Grade Crossing Protection Fund will cover 95% of these costs. The Dakota, Minnesota and Eastern Railroad will be responsible for the remaining expenses associated with the design and construction of the new crossing warning devices, as well as the complete cost of future maintenance for the new signals and circuitry.

The project aims to complete all necessary signal work within 18 months of the ICC’s order. This initiative reflects a commitment to enhancing public safety and reducing the risk of accidents at railway crossings in the area. Upgrading these crossings not only improves safety for motorists but also ensures a more secure environment for train operations on the Dakota, Minnesota and Eastern Railroad’s routes.

As communities continue to prioritize safety measures, the ICC’s funding approval represents a proactive approach to addressing potential hazards at railway crossings. Enhanced warning systems are essential for preventing accidents and safeguarding lives in local neighborhoods.