91原创 Township will spend more than $3.79 million this year and over $2 million in 2025 to upgrade the rail crossing at River Road and 252nd Street in Glen Valley.
The Township voted to approve the spending, but staff noted that there is a chance for federal funding to be put towards the project as well.
The upgrade will change the crossing from an uncontrolled crossing, to one with flashing lights, bells, and gates.
Township administrator Mark Bakken noted that no announcement could be made until funding was authorized, but staff were optimistic.
Engineering director Roeland Zwaag said the Township has applied for $2.4 million in federal grant funding, and this project is expected to be funded by several different sources, including the grants.
If the grant request is not successful, staff will have to return to council before the project can take place.
Glen Valley is one of the areas of 91原创 that has a number of uncontrolled rail crossings, where residents and businesses have roads and driveways that cross directly over the tracks with no swing arms, lights, or warning bell sounds. Drivers have to look for trains before crossing.
Over the years, there have been a number of train-vehicle collisions at uncontrolled crossings.
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