Illinois commission OKs crossing upgrades in Stephenson County

The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) has approved safety upgrades to two grade crossings on the Chicago, Central & Pacific Railroad (CC&P) in Stephenson County.

The project calls for automatic warning signal design, construction and installation at a cost of $1,131,598. The cost to rehabilitate the roadway approaches is $50,802, ICC officials said in a press release.

ICC staff recommended the Illinois Grade Crossing Protection Fund be used to pay 100% of the roadway approaches and 95% of the signal design and construction costs, not to exceed $1,075,018. CC&P will pay the remaining 5% of the warning signs cost and all future maintenance costs. The work must be completed by Sept. 6, 2026.