SCTPO receives $4.9 million in railroad crossing removal grant

David C Lester

VIERA, Fla. – The Space Coast Transportation Planning Organization announced an FRA grant to eliminate railroad crossings totaling $4.9 million.

The grant will go toward the design and construction of fifteen exit gates and two medians at seven railroad crossings and is part of a $6.1 million safety investment in Brevard County, the report said. Brevard County and the cities of Cocoa and Melbourne will provide a local match.

The seven level crossing locations are listed below:

1. Cocoa, FL. – Michigan Avenue: New center and exit gates
2. Cocoa, Fl. – Dixon Blvd: New exit gates
3. Cocoa, Fl. – West Highlands Drive: New exit gates
4. Melbourne, Florida. – Masterson St: New exit gates
5. Melbourne, Florida. – New Haven Avenue: New exit gates
6. Melbourne, Florida. – Line St (WH Jackson St): New exit gates
7. Micco, Fl. – Holly St: New exit gates

As a partner with the Space Coast Transportation Planning Organization (SCTPO), Brightline is leading the design and construction of the project.

Georganna Gillette, chief executive of the SCTPO, said: “At the SCTPO, safety is our top priority as we plan the transport system of tomorrow. These proposed improvements represent a significant step forward in ensuring the safety of all road users, in line with the Vision Zero goals of preventing serious injuries and deaths on roads.” Gillette further said the SCTPO is pleased to receive “this grant and the associated improvements in infrastructure security.”[.] We would also like to emphasize how important it is for drivers to follow traffic rules. Never try to walk around with your arms crossed. . . We urge all road users to remain vigilant and prioritize safety at level crossings to prevent tragedies and save lives.”

Brightline President Patrick Goddard said, “Brightline appreciates local communities coming together and proposing projects to improve safety along the rail corridor.”