(The Stevens Point Journal posted the following story on its website on September 20.)
STEVENS POINT, Wisc. — Canadian National Rail-way officials will hold a meeting Sept. 30 to answer questions about their request to close two railroad crossings and increase the speed of trains through Stevens Point.
Canadian National petitioned the state Office of Commissioner of Railroads in July to make Tamarac and Prairie streets into cul-de-sacs and allow trains to travel up to 40 mph through the area.
The state Office of Com-missioner of Railroads so far hasn’t scheduled a public hearing date for Canadian National’s request, said Hearing Examiner Dave Meier.
After the public hearing, the examiner makes a proposed decision and allows a period of public comment. Wisconsin Railroads Commissioner Rodney Kreunen then rules on the request, based on the public hearing and proposed decision issued by the hearing examiner.
City officials also have requested state Department of Transportation funds that would upgrade five Stevens Point railroad crossings by adding flashing lights and gates.
The public information meeting starts at 7 p.m. in Conference Room 1 and 2 of the Portage County Annex Building. Maps of the railroad project will be on display and city officials will answer questions on their grant request to upgrade railroad crossings.