Twenty-five percent of all trains between the eastern and western United States pass through the Midwest railroad gateway in Council Bluffs, Iowa. With nine railroad main lines of five major railroads converging at Council Bluffs, it is a city with a street grid congested by seemingly endless railroad grade crossings. Iowa DOT’s $23 million railroad consolidation project eliminated nine at-grade roadway-railroad crossings, improved traffic at major interchanges, and provided for future capacity expansion of the rail lines. In all, the project greatly improved safety for pedestrians and motorists alike while preparing for growth in the future, benefiting the economy and cutting long-term costs. Additionally, the project was completed months ahead of schedule and $2 million under the projected cost.
America's Transportation Awards 