N E W S W I R E

Transportation Review Advisory Council  Internet News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 7, 2001

Rail Grade Separation Money Committed

Columbus – Gov. Bob Taft’s Rail Grade Separation Program moved ahead today as a subcommittee of the TRAC committed more than $3.2. million to various railroad grade projects, including $2.6 million for construction of an overpass in North Ridgeville and $275,000 for a feasibility study at Vicker’s Crossing in Northwood in Wood County.

The four- man panel headed by ODOT Director Gordon Proctor voted unanimously for the projects, part of Taft’s 10-year $200 million initiative to free Ohio cities from time-consuming

constriction points where trains and cars meet. So far, the program has committed $33 million for construction of eight projects.

"The $275,000 for Vicker’s Crossing is significant," said Proctor, "because it is a difficult site involving two rail lines. U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur’s effort to get $4 million in federal funds for the project is much appreciated by this administration and, I am sure, by the people in her district."

The rail grade panel has indicated it will contribute up to $8 million toward construction of the

grade separation which could cost $40 million. The $275,000 is to come from rail grade funds provided by the Ohio Legislature.

Other projects receiving commitments today were:

• $150,000 for a 2002 feasibility study of a grade separation of Oregon Road in Wood County
• $130,000 for environmental work on a grade separation at in Fostoria’s "Iron Triangles"
• $104,000 for further study of the SR 58 site in Wellington in Lorain County

Complete list of :
Tier I Projects  
Tier II Projects
Map of Projects
TAG Recommendations