FAYETTE COUNTY, Ohio — In a recent decision, the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) has given the green light for crucial safety upgrades at rail crossings in Allen and Fayette counties, enhancing public safety and preventing potential accidents.
The Chicago Ft. Wayne & Eastern Railroad (CFE) has been approved to implement circuitry upgrades at the N. Cable Road grade crossing in Lima, Allen County, with completion slated for October 18, 2024. The project, totaling $216,973, will be funded by federal resources covering 80 percent of the costs, with CFE contributing the remaining 20 percent.
In Fayette County, the Indiana & Ohio Railway (IORY) will execute comprehensive safety measures at the West Court Street grade crossing in Washington Court House. The upgrades, including flashing lights, gates, and a new surface, are expected to be completed by October 18, 2024, with a total cost of $624,599. Federal funds will cover $562,255 of the expenses, and Washington Court House will bear $62,344 of the cost for the new surface.
To ensure public safety during the construction phase, local governments may seek PUCO funding for additional safety enhancements, such as rumble strips, improved signage, illumination, or other improvements at the project sites. The State Grade Crossing Safety Fund allocates funds for these enhancements, capped at $5,000 per project.
The PUCO, tasked with evaluating Ohio’s public grade crossings, aims to determine the necessity for active warning devices. Since the implementation of these assessments, Ohio has witnessed a significant reduction in annual train-motor vehicle crashes, dropping from 356 in 1990 to 61 in 2022.
Concerned citizens and stakeholders can utilize the Ohio Rail Hotline at (866) 814-RAIL (7245) for any railroad crossing inquiries. Further information about these projects is available on the Ohio railroad information system website at gradecrossings.puco.ohio.gov.
For those interested in the details of the Commission’s order and a comprehensive list of crossings slated for upgrades, visit the PUCO website at www.PUCO.ohio.gov. Navigate to the Docketing Information System, and enter the case numbers 23-912-RR-FED and 23-892-RR-FED for additional information.