Illinois Grade Crossing Safety: ICC Funding for Carroll & Peoria

Illinois Commerce Commission funds grade crossing safety improvements in Carroll and Peoria counties, totaling over $822,000. Railroads contribute to signal and surface renewal projects.

Illinois Grade Crossing Safety: ICC Funding for Carroll & Peoria
September 6, 2025 5:48 pm
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Introduction

The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) approved state funding for grade crossing safety improvements in Carroll and Peoria counties, with the ICC Grade Crossing Protection Fund (GCPF) contributing to signal and surface renewal projects. The total investment amounts to over $822,000.

Carroll County Project

In Carroll County, the ICC Grade Crossing Protection Fund (GCPF) will finance 95% of a $345,351 signal design and construction project at the Grange Road crossing near Lanark. The Dakota, Minnesota and Eastern Railroad Co. will cover the remaining 5% of the costs, in addition to future maintenance expenses. All work must be finalized within one year of the order.

Peoria County Signal Project

In Peoria County, the ICC GCPF will fund 95% of a $374,187 signal design and construction project at Kramm Road near Edwards. ICC officials stated that all signal work must be finished within the next 18 months.

Peoria County Surface Renewal Project

Also in Peoria County, the ICC will cover 90% of a $102,733 surface renewal project. BNSF Railway Co. will pay the balance of the costs and will also be responsible for future maintenance.

Financial Contributions

The total combined investment for both counties exceeds $822,000, with the ICC GCPF contributing the majority of the funding.

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Conclusion

The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) has approved state funding for safety enhancements at grade crossings in Carroll and Peoria counties. The ICC Grade Crossing Protection Fund (GCPF) will cover the majority of the project costs, with the Dakota, Minnesota and Eastern Railroad Co. and BNSF Railway Co. contributing the remaining funds and future maintenance expenses.

Company Summary

Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC): The ICC approved the funding.

Dakota, Minnesota and Eastern Railroad Co.: Will pay 5% of the signal project costs in Carroll County and future maintenance costs.

BNSF Railway Co.: Will pay the remaining costs for the Peoria County projects and future maintenance costs.

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