Published: March 03, 2008 09:53 am      

Bridge to be replaced near Belle Rive rail

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Staff Report

The Illinois Commerce Commission has approved plans to improve public safety at the East Straza/TR 505 highway/rail grade separation on Illinois Central Railroad Company tracks near Belle Rive by replacing the bridge.

According to information from the ICC, the project includes demolition of the existing “structurally deficient,” six-span timber deck and stringer bridge on timber pile abutments and construction of a three-span, precast, prestressed concrete deck on concrete piers and abutments on steel piles.

Cost of the project is estimated at $797,740. The Grade Crossing Protection Fund will pay for approximately 60 percent of the cost at $478,644, information states, while the remainder will be paid by the railroad and the township.

Work on the bridge is expected to be completed by August 2009.

Project selection and management of the GCPF highway-rail projects include safety improvements such as the installation of new warning systems, highway approach improvements and the construction or reconstruction of grade separation structures. The ICC administers the GCPF, which is funded by motor fuel tax money designed for rail safety improvements, information states. The General Assembly appropriates $27 million annually for GCPF projects.