Illinois Rail Upgrades: GCPF Funding for Union Pacific, BNSF Crossings

Illinois allocates Grade Crossing Protection Fund for safety improvements. **Railway** upgrades in Marion and Knox counties include new warning devices.

Illinois Rail Upgrades: GCPF Funding for Union Pacific, BNSF Crossings
November 12, 2025 7:54 am | Last Update: November 18, 2025 5:55 am
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Introduction

On November 6, the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) approved funding from the state’s Grade Crossing Protection Fund (GCPF) for grade crossing upgrades in Marion and Knox counties. The GCPF will finance projects totaling $837,432, with Union Pacific Railroad and BNSF Railway contributing to the projects’ costs.

Marion County Project

In Marion County, the GCPF will cover 95% of a $446,502 project to install new automatic warning devices at the Gessell Road crossing near Kinmundy. Union Pacific Railroad will cover the remaining 5% and future maintenance costs for maintenance and circuitry. The ICC also approved $310,000 from the GCPF for approach modifications at the crossing. Kinmundy Township Road District will be responsible for future approach maintenance costs.

Knox County Project

The GCPF will cover 95% of a $390,930 project to install new automatic warning signals and circuitry at the 100 East Road crossing in Galesburg, Knox County. BNSF Railway will pay the remaining 5% and cover future maintenance costs.

Conclusion

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The Illinois Commerce Commission approved funding from the Grade Crossing Protection Fund for upgrades to grade crossings in Marion and Knox counties. The projects involve the installation of new warning devices and circuitry, with funding shared between the GCPF and involved railroad companies.

Company Summary

Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC): Approved funding from the state’s Grade Crossing Protection Fund for grade crossing upgrades.

Union Pacific Railroad: Will cover 5% of the project costs and future maintenance costs at the Gessell Road crossing in Marion County.

BNSF Railway: Will pay 5% of the project costs and cover future maintenance costs at the 100 East Road crossing in Knox County.

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