Ohio rail panel OKs crossing improvements

Rail News Home Communication and Signal 2/28/2020 Rail News: Communication and Signal
PUCO approved Norfolk Southern Railway to install new lights and gates at three crossings in Ohio.Photo – Norfolk Southern

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) earlier this week approved the installation of lights, gates and warning devices at several grade crossings in the state.

The PUCO approved construction authorization from the Ohio Rail Development Commission directing Norfolk Southern Railway, Chicago Ft. Wayne & Eastern Railroad and the Wheeling & Lake Erie Railway Co. to install new lights and gates at seven crossings across seven counties.

In addition, the commission approved CSX to install active warning devices at the State Route 7 crossing in Washington County, and the Columbus & Ohio River Railroad to install flashing lights at the Hope Avenue crossing in Franklin County.

The installations and upgrades must be completed by Nov. 26, PUCO officials said in a press release.

Federal funding will be provided for the projects through the State Grade Crossing Safety fund up to $5,000 per project.

The commission is responsible for evaluating Ohio’s public crossings to determine the need for installing active warning devices.