Only one answer to 14/59/CN problem in Barrington

Several ideas have been espoused to alleviate the problems associated with the Canadian National Railroad crossing on Route 14 east of Route 59.

Flint Creek lies parallel with and approximately 130 feet west of the track and approximately 10 feet below. The creek downstream crosses Route 59 (Hough Street) and is the terminus of a 60-inch storm sewer from the south under the pavement.

Raising or lowering the track would result in a huge and extremely expensive undertaking and would probably require adding another engine to each train because of the change in grade.

A vehicular underpass on Route 14 would not be feasible because of Flint Creek. God takes care of gravity but does nothing for pumps and generators.

A vehicular overpass, because of required height clearances and road grades, would probably extend from Route 59 to Valencia Avenue. An additional lane would need to be provided for access to Shorley Woods and Lake Zurich Road. North Avenue, Drury Lane and Berry Road would need to be blocked off.

The only option seems to be to limit the length of the trains and the time CNRR is allowed to block all the crossings. Also, the trains could be restricted from the Route 14 crossing during morning and evening rush hours. Meaningful fines could be established.

CNRR would probably not like these restrictions but would definitely welcome the least expense compared to any construction. Taxpayers would support it. The overpass in Aurora cost estimate is $48.5 million.

Also, if CNRR happens to go bankrupt, we would not be stuck with a useless monstrosity.

Tom Faust

Barrington