State Representative Robert Sprague (R-Findlay) today announced that, according to a release from the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO), the PUCO approved authorization from the Ohio Rail Development Commission (ORDC) directing CSX to install flashing lights and gates at a grade crossing in Hardin County.

Specifically, CSX will install lights and gates at the South Wayne Street (513-768N) grade crossing in Kenton. Funding for the upgrades will come from the State Grade Crossing Safety Fund and the railroad will be responsible for completing construction of the upgrades by October 4, 2012.

“Our region boasts inherent logistics and distribution advantages for companies, and our rail and road infrastructure will be a key driver of Northwest Ohio's regional economy in the years ahead. I am pleased to see that we are enhancing safety for residents of Kenton in addition to keeping these economic assets working well for our district,” Representative Sprague said.

The PUCO is responsible for evaluating Ohio’s public grade crossings to determine the need for installing active warning devises. For more information on Ohio’s grade crossings, please visit http://gradecrossings.puco.ohio.gov/.