Ohio utilities commission OKs $1.4M in rail crossing upgrades

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) last week approved over $1.4 million in safety upgrades at grade crossings in Lucas, Medina and Warren counties.

The upgrades will be performed by the Indiana & Ohio Railway Co. (IORY), Ann Arbor Railroad and Wheeling & Lake Erie Railway (WLE).

In Mason, Warren County, IORY will install flashing lights and gates with surface reconstruction at the Western Row Road crossing by May 20, 2026. The project's total cost is $677,795; federal funds will cover $529,801 to complete the project. IORY will pay the remaining balance of $147,994, including 50% of surface reconstruction.

In Toledo, Lucas County, Ann Arbor Railroad will will install flashing lights and gates at the Erie Street crossing by Aug. 20, 2026. Federal funds will cover $406,871 to complete the project. And in Spencer, Medina County, WLE will install flashing lights and gates at the State Route 162/East Main Street crossing by May 20, 2026. Federal funds total $398,123 for the project.

To increase public safety during project construction, local governments may seek funding from the PUCO for the cost of safety improvements such as rumble strips, illumination, improved signage or other enhancements at the project location. Funding for such improvements comes from the State Grade Crossing Safety Fund and may not exceed $5,000 per project, PUCO officials said.