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Officials announce M-85 rail grade separation funding in Trenton
January 29, 2025
TRENTON, Mich. - U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell was joined by officials from the Michigan Infrastructure Office (MIO) and the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) to announce $73.5 million in funding from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to improve the railroad crossing at M-85 (Fort Street) near Van Horn Road in Trenton. MDOT will administer the funds to build a bridge separating the CN Railroad from vehicle traffic. These much-needed infrastructure improvements will enhance the quality of life in the region by decreasing long wait times, reducing carbon emissions and boosting economic activity.
M-85 is a heavily traveled roadway in southern Wayne County that experiences approximately 14 to 16 crossings per day (28,775 in 2024). The existing railroad crossing at M-85 near Van Horn Road is located near a Level 1 trauma center and creates safety concerns by impeding emergency vehicles. Congestion also impedes extensive commercial truck traffic to the nearby Stellantis Trenton Engine Plant and Ford Woodhaven and Flat Rock Assembly Plants. Separating the CN Railroad from traffic will reduce delays for businesses, emergency vehicles and commuters while also cutting carbon emissions from idling vehicles.
The total project cost is estimated at $100 million. In addition to the federal investment, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), the Make it in Michigan Competitiveness Fund (The Competitiveness Fund) is providing $16.5 million in match grants. MDOT and CN Railroad will invest $5 million each to cover the remaining costs.
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