County, towns switch roads for security|Superior Telegram

“CN is interested in a long-lasting service that enhances both safety and convenience,” stated Jonathan Abecassis, a spokesman for CN. “As we are still in discussions with our partners, we will decrease to comment further.”

The Douglas County Board approved the exchange last week.

“For us to concur with the transfer, I am recommending that it is updated to county highway requirements,” said Highway Commissioner Jason Jackman. He stated while the roads are not designated for truck routes existing, truck traffic will be utilizing those roads rather of County Highway AA to reach U.S. Highway 53, and the grade crossing on County Highway AA will be closed.

“What is occurring is when the trains are obstructing AA, trucks are starting to us Sjoberg and Wasko Roadway by themselves,” Jackman stated. He said it’s a more secure alternative than going through downtown Solon Springs where trucks would need to make a 90-degree turn in a tight intersection to remain on County Highway A, where there is another set of train tracks.

“There’s not a lot of room there so we don’t desire them going downtown Solon,” Jackman said. “So this would be the bypass as much as 53 without them having to hit any tracks or crossings.”

Over the years, the amount of time the crossing is obstructed by a train and the variety of clogs has actually been on the rise, the highway commissioner stated.

“So if they can close that, it’s twofold,” Jackman said. “It benefits them in their operations and it eliminates any potential for a casualty at that location. It’s a big security improvement and I think that is among the main factors they’re accepting purchase the town roads.”

The jurisdictional transfer ensures that a future town administration can’t change their mind and post Sjoberg or Wasko roads to restrict truck traffic, which would force trucks to take a trip on County Highway A.Jackman stated after the first of the year, he will meet with railway authorities to select a consultant that will be accountable for developing the job, and getting easements and wetland allows where needed.

“The very best case circumstance would be to create it in ’19 and construct it in ’20,” Jackman stated. “I will not close AA till I accept the jurisdictional transfer.”

County Highway AA will end up being a town roadway on either side of the tracks and Solon Springs will be accountable for maintaining it.