Ohio commission approves upgrade at Summit County rail crossing

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) on Sept. 17 approved $435,990 for safety upgrades at the Fairview Avenue grade crossing in Barberton.

The upgrades call for installation of flashing lights and gates with a new surface at the crossing. All work is to be completed by June 17, 2027. The crossing's operating railroad is the Akron Barberton Cluster Railway Co., a subsidiary of the Wheeling Corp.

Federal funds will pay for the upgrade project; local governments may seek funding from the PUCO for additional safety improvements, including rumble strips, illumination and improved signage at the project location. Funding for such improvements comes from the State Grade Crossing Safety Fund and may not exceed $5,000 per project.