USA: Indiana Department of Transportation is has announced more than $121m of one-off funding under its Local Trax programme to support 12 level crossing safety improvement projects including grade separation and crossing closures.
‘Local Trax funding is targeted toward the highest priority rail crossings where accidents have been frequent, chronic congestion has frustrated drivers and rail crossings have limited potential for development’, said Governor Eric J Holcomb on December 13. ‘These projects will help solve those challenges.’
The programme requires local authorities to meet 20% of the cost of land acquisition and construction, with the state providing 80%. INDOT will fund and manage design and environmental work, as well as providing project management through design delivery, contract award, construction and inspection.
Norfolk Southern, CSX and Canadian National are to provide a further $10m between them. ‘Our participation in Local Trax represents our commitment to safe rail operations and being good corporate neighbours in the communities where we operate’, said David Hall, President of the Indiana Railway Coalition.
