GALESBURG, Ill. — Galesburg's city council is deciding whether it will participate in the Federal Railroad Administration's Railroad Crossing Elimination study.
The hope is to address traffic and safety concerns, specifically at the railroad crossing near the intersection of Mulberry and Chambers Street as well as the underpass a few blocks away at South and Seminary Street.
Both of the areas could be closed if the city decides to move forward.
The federal study may lead to a new, taller underpass. The current one at South and Seminary sits at 12 feet and 8 inches. By raising the structure, taller vehicles like fire trucks and commercial trailers, would be allowed through.
Mulberry's railroad crossing could also receive some safety improvements. Commuters must approach the current layout with caution, looking both ways before traveling across two sets of train tracks.
The city isn't the only one picking up the estimated $1,683,988 tab. 80% of the study's cost would be covered by the Railroad Crossing Elimination program, leaving Galesburg to split the costs with BNSF.
Galesburg would be required to dish out $168,399, nearly a tenth of the study's original price.
If the city votes to participate in the federal study, it will have to submit an application by Sept. 23, 2024.