Michigan Secures Funding for Railroad Crossing Elimination on M-85 in Wayne County

Grand Rapids, MI – Michigan has secured significant funding to eliminate a railroad crossing on M-85 (Fort Street) in Wayne County, addressing a long-standing issue that has plagued commuters in the area. The project, aimed at improving traffic flow and safety, will see the construction of a bridge separating the Canadian National (CN) Railroad tracks from vehicle traffic along Fort Street near Van Horn Road in Trenton.

The area, which experiences heavy traffic, has been known for frequent delays due to train crossings, with approximately 14 to 16 trains passing through each day. This congestion has led to long wait times for drivers, further compounding the region’s traffic problems. The new bridge is expected to alleviate these delays and enhance overall safety for motorists and pedestrians alike.

The $100 million project is being funded with $73.5 million from the Federal Railroad Administration, as announced on Thursday, January 30. While construction has not yet been scheduled, the funding marks a critical step forward for the project, which has been a top priority for local leaders and representatives.

U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell, who has championed the project in Congress, expressed her support for the long-awaited initiative. “This has been a top priority since I’ve come to Congress, and the Downrivers know and have been screaming for attention to this for decades,” she said.

The elimination of the railroad crossing has been a major concern for residents and officials in the Downriver area, with traffic delays affecting daily commutes and economic activity. The new bridge is seen as a key solution to these ongoing issues, with construction expected to improve both the quality of life and the efficiency of travel in the region.

Although a timeline for construction has yet to be announced, the announcement of funding for the project has been met with optimism from local communities, who have long advocated for the removal of the railroad crossing. As the project progresses, officials hope it will serve as a model for similar projects in other areas facing similar transportation challenges.