The springfield rail improvement project consists of a new grade separation at north grand avenue between 12TH and 19TH streets over the NS and IM railroad tracks through a new overpass over three…

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) awarded $34.55 million to the City of Springfield, Illinois under the National Infrastructure Investments program (CFDA 20.933) on May 1, 2025 for the Springfield Rail Improvement Project. This project grant will fund the construction of a new grade separation at North Grand Avenue between 12th and 19th Streets, featuring a new overpass that will eliminate three at-grade railroad crossings over Norfolk Southern and Illinois Midland Railroad tracks. The three eliminated crossings are located adjacent to Lanphier High School, Memorial Stadium, and Robin Roberts Stadium.

The project addresses critical safety and quality-of-life issues in Springfield by reducing chronic train horn noise that disrupts educational activities and impairs student learning at the school and adjacent facilities. Beyond noise mitigation, the infrastructure improvements will deliver additional community benefits including reduced vehicle delays, enhanced emergency services access, improved pedestrian and vehicle safety, improved employment access, and increased accessibility for persons with disabilities. The project is scheduled for completion by January 31, 2029, with the City of Springfield serving as the prime awardee through its Office of Planning and Economic Development.

The springfield rail improvement project consists of a new grade separation at north grand avenue between 12TH and 19TH streets over the NS and IM railroad tracks through a new overpass over three at-grade crossings. The three at-grade crossings to be eliminated by the project are located immediately adjacent to lanphier high school, memorial stadium, and robin roberts stadium. The constant train horn noise seriously disrupts activities at these locations and impairs student learning. Benefits of the project include noise reduction, reduced delays, improved emergency services access, improved access to employment, vehicle and pedestrian safety, and improved access for persons with disabilities.