Photo: Malorny / Moment / Getty Images
On January 18, 2024, the Ohio Rail Development Commission approved funding from the Ohio Grade Crossing Elimination Program for the City of Ashland’s track relocation project. The City of Ashland plans to remove an existing at-grade crossing located at Union Street (DOT# 265034C) and reconfigure the rail sidings. The crossing was once needed to access an industry that is currently no longer in operation. The project will relocate the rail sidings away from the crossing and permanently close the at-grade crossing at Union Street. Once removed the property will be redeveloped for non-rail use.
The Rail Commission will contribute $804,735, or 90 percent, toward the total project cost estimated at $894,150. Funds will be provided through the Ohio Grade Crossing Elimination Program. The City of Ashland will contribute the remaining 10 percent, or $89,415, toward this project.
“The Ohio Grade Crossing Elimination Program is an excellent resource for communities who are open to the permanent closure of at least one at-grade crossing in their community. While this program assists in readying applicants to apply for federal grant programs for large grade separation projects, the state’s program can also be utilized for other activities such as the Ashland project which is smaller in scope but closes railroad crossings and improves safety. We are happy to support the City in this endeavor,” said Matthew Dietrich, Executive Director, Ohio Rail Development Commission.
“We are so thankful that the Rail Commission is willing to partner with us on such a critical revitalization project,” said Mayor Matt Miller. “By helping us eliminate an underutilized spur and at-grade crossing in the Pump House District, they are setting the stage for a multi-million dollar investment in both new housing and commercial development in our downtown business district. This grant will help us overcome one of the biggest obstacles to this new development,” said Miller.