Columbus Planning to Restructure Rail Crossing
(photo courtesy Louisville and Indiana Railroad)
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowThe city of Columbus says it is looking to mitigate traffic delays at the rail crossing near State Road 46 and State Road 11. The restructuring plan is in response to improvements being made by CSX Corp. (Nasdaq: CSX) to the Louisville and Indiana Railroad, which runs through Columbus.
The city says when the improvements are complete, which is expected to be sometime in 2018, rail traffic will significantly increase causing an adverse affect on the SR 46 rail crossing. The city, along with Indianapolis-based American Structurepoint, has created a five-pronged approach to address traffic issues caused by the improvements and improve public safety.
The city has applied for two mobility project awards from the Indiana Department of Transportation in order to restructure the intersection. One of the projects involves moving the rail line further west from the intersection, while the other involves building a vehicular overpass. The city says if either of the projects is selected, construction would not begin until 2022.
The city is also considering installing "quiet zones" within city limits and improving alternate routes in and out of the Columbus. Ideas are also being explored to make sure residents have access to city services by locating emergency equipment and staff on the west side of the rail line and addressing bus ridership needs, among others.
A potential timeline for INDOT approval was not released.