Crossing projects advance in Ohio, New York

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio has approved construction authorization from the Ohio Rail Development Commission directing Columbus & Ohio River Railroad to install mast-mounted flashing lights and roadway gates at a grade crossing in Washington Township.

The railroad will be responsible for completing the upgrade by May 12, 2014. Funding will be covered by federal dollars.

Meanwhile, the New York State Department of Transportation has scheduled a public hearing on Sept. 18 in Orangetown to review plans to extend the J. B. Clarke Rail Trail from Greenbush Road to the Blauvelt Library.

The project would involve the construction of a new, grade-separated bicycle and pedestrian crossing over tracks owned by CSX Transportation.