Illinois commission OKs funds to upgrade three crossings

The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) has approved the allocation of nearly $1.6 million from the state's Grade Crossing Protection Fund (GCPF) to cover most of the cost for safety upgrades at three grade crossings near Roberts. 

The work calls for replacing antiquated warning devices and improving public safety aspects at the Weldon, Main and Green street crossings used by CN's Illinois Central Railroad (IC). All work must be completed within 18 months. 

The GCPF will cover 95% of the estimated cost for signal design and construction. The IC will pay the remaining 5% to update the warning devices, and cover all future costs to maintain the signals and circuitry. 

The ICC also will provide $67,000 from the GCPF to remove existing track and resurface the Weldon Street crossing.