OKDOT Oks crossing upgrades

The Oklahoma Department of Transportation expects to spend approximately $100 million over the next three years upgrading 300 highway/rail grade crossings now only marked with crossbucks to full warning systems gates, lights and bells, as well as concrete crossing surfaces.

According to Federal Railroad Administration and Operation Lifesaver Inc. figures, 12 people were killed and 21 injured in 45 incidents at Oklahoma rail crossings in 2014. About half the incidents occurred at crossings without full warning systems. <p< On Oct. 12, 2015, the Oklahoma Transportation Commission is expected to consider awarding contracts for as many as 10 crossing projects, with more to follow later. Two of the initial 10 upgrade projects will involve Stillwater Central Railroad crossings in Oklahoma County.