ICC Approves Rail Safety Upgrades At Two Ogle County Crossings

Upgrades will add automatic flashing light signals and gates at three BNSF Railway crossings in Illinois

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The Illinois Commerce Commission approved nearly $1 million for railroad safety improvements at three BNSF Railway crossings, including two in Ogle County near Milledgeville and Polo. The upgrades will add automatic flashing light signals and gates at the crossings, with the Illinois Grade Crossing Protection Fund covering up to 95% of the project cost.

Why it matters

These rail safety upgrades are important for improving public safety and reducing the risk of accidents at busy railroad crossings in rural Illinois communities. The investments will help protect drivers, pedestrians, and rail passengers by enhancing the warning systems at these high-traffic crossing locations.

The details

The ICC approved $993,328, or about 95% of the $1 million project cost, to add automatic flashing light signals and gates at the South Brookeville Ogle Road crossing near Milledgeville, the West Oregon Trail Road crossing near Polo, and a third crossing on Oakville Road near Chadwick in Carroll County. BNSF Railway will be responsible for the remaining expenses and all future maintenance of the upgrades, which must be completed within 18 months.

  • The ICC approved the rail safety upgrades on February 12, 2026.
  • The work must be completed within 18 months of the ICC's order.

The players

Illinois Commerce Commission

The state agency that regulates public utilities and transportation infrastructure in Illinois.

BNSF Railway

A major freight railroad company that operates across the western United States, including in Illinois.

Illinois Grade Crossing Protection Fund

A state fund that provides financial assistance for safety improvements at railroad crossings.

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The takeaway

These rail safety upgrades demonstrate the state's commitment to improving transportation infrastructure and public safety, especially in rural areas where railroad crossings can pose significant risks. The investments will help protect drivers, pedestrians, and rail passengers by enhancing the warning systems at these high-traffic crossing locations.