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Crossing programs
Crossing programs
MDOT uses dedicated state and federal dollars to improve motorist safety through warning-device enhancements, crossing-surface replacements, and crossing elimination projects. There are approximately 4,800 public railroad crossings throughout the state.
Questions? Contact Alexis Louth, Local Crossing Analyst, at 517-897-2103, or Nisia Tebbe, Trunkline Crossing Manager, at 517-599-4014.
Safety enhancements
MDOT provides funding for safety enhancements, such as active-warning devices, at existing public grade crossings. Projects are primarily identified through an annual prioritization process that determines where investments will have the greatest benefit for the motoring public. Funding may also be available for crossings affected by road projects. For more details, refer to the Annual Priority Program letter.
Crossing Surface Program
MDOT provides funding assistance for crossing surface improvements on local roads. Through this annual program, local road agencies may apply for grants in cooperation with railroad companies.
MDOT is now accepting applications from road authorities through the OneSpan online application tool. For more details, review the OneSpan instructions, application link and program letters.
- 2027 Crossing Surface Program application instructions
- 2027 Crossing Surface Program application
- 2027 Road Agency Crossing Surface Program letter
- 2027 Railroad Crossing Surface Program letter
Applications are due Sept. 30, 2026.
Crossing eliminations
MDOT provides lump-sum cash incentives to road authorities permanently closing public roads at railroad crossings and provides capped funding incentives towards track realignment projects that eliminate public at-grade crossings.
Grade separations
MDOT is soliciting projects under its Local Grade Separation Program.
Applications from local road authorities or their consultants are due by Dec. 1, 2026.